Jacksonville receives USDOT grant for bus project

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA), a branch of the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), awarded $19.1 million in funds Monday to the Jacksonville Bus Rapid Transit Southeast Corridor Project in Florida.

The new corridor will be 11.1 miles long. It is the third portion of the new First Coast Flyer BRT system, which has been carried out in five phases.

The project will be an important addition to the Jacksonville community. The area needs faster, more frequent bus services. This will help the region gain new riders and also offers an additional transportation option, which is important in an area so dependent on public transit.

“When completed, Jacksonville’s Southeast Corridor BRT will guarantee residents access to convenient, reliable and efficient transportation options, which can increase access to economic opportunity,” Anthony Foxx, U.S. secretary of Transportation, said.

The funds were taken from the Small Starts Capital Investment Grant program.

“By expanding its BRT system, Jacksonville is building its transit future for a fast growing population and making a smart investment to support local and regional economic development,” Therese McMillan, FTA acting administrator, said. “The Southeast Corridor project also will make a huge difference for the majority of local residents along the corridor who do not have access to automobiles and rely heavily on public transportation to get to work, school, medical care and other vital services.”