rabbittransit Applies for Planning Grant to Increase Inclusion
rabbittransit submitted an application on March 18, 2016, for the Inclusive Planning Impact Grant through an initiative known as Transit Planning4All. The goal of the project is to demonstrate how inclusive community planning can empower people with disabilities and older adults to be actively involved in designing and implementing public transportation systems.
The grant opportunity is funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living and Managed in Partnership with the Federal Transit Administration and administered by the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA). Grants are available up to $86,000 each for up to eight organizations for a 12-month period.
Currently, rabbittransit offers opportunities for community involvement through its Transportation Partnership on Mobility (TPOM). However, the grant would foster processes for increased participation by people with disabilities and older adults in the design & implementation of coordinated transportation systems.
Every community survey indicates transportation as an area that needs to be addressed. “We do an excellent job of collecting feedback about our existing service or in regard to service changes, however, this grant would allow us the opportunity to encourage inclusive participation in the actual design of service and brainstorming of new opportunities. If we really want to remove transportation barriers, we need to include those who need it,” comments Richard Farr, rabbittransit executive director.
To assist rabbittransit in the project management of this initiative, the Authority engaged Dianna Benaknin, former director of the York Area Agency on Aging to spearhead the efforts. Her knowledge of the community, key stakeholders and general needs make her instrumental in serving as the project lead. Transportation is a critical part of maintaining independence. “I am excited to be part of an initiative that actively engages older adults and people with disabilities to plan and implement changes that will maximize their integration with our community,” comments Benaknin.
