Transit agencies back Caltrans’ draft FTA §5310 allocations for small urban and rural areas

Caltrans presented the draft 2025 program of projects for the Federal Transit Administration Section 5310 program (enhanced mobility of seniors and individuals with disabilities) and described next steps in the appeals and public‑hearing process.

Brandy, presenting Tab 55, said the program has two components (large urbanized areas; small urbanized and rural areas) and that the commission is responsible for approving the latter. Nonprofit agencies, federally recognized tribes and qualifying public agencies are eligible to apply.

Sean Tietjen, executive director of the Shasta Regional Transportation Agency, offered in‑person public comment supporting Caltrans staff and the scoring methodology, and urged continued flexibility in using federal toll credits as match. He said the program would support replacement vehicles and free fares for seniors in small urban and rural communities.

Caltrans staff explained the next steps: a Caltrans‑administered appeals process in February and a required public hearing at the March 2026 meeting, after which the commission will consider approval and adoption of the final program for small urbanized and rural areas. The item was informational; no vote was required.