Congressman Tim Ryan Announces $2.3 Million in Funding to Western Reserve Transit Authority

Youngstown, OH – Congressman Tim Ryan (OH-13) today announces $2,331,000 in federal funds to the Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) as part of the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Accelerating Innovative Mobility (AIM) program that will spur the development, implementation, and adoption of innovative technologies and practices to improve mobility and enhance the rider experience in Mahoning County. This grant is part of a test program by the FTA that will make Mahoning County part of a network of transportation agencies around the country that will test innovative solutions and share them with the industry.

“This federal investment for the WRTA will change public transportation not only in the Mahoning Valley but across the country,” said Congressman Ryan. “I am proud of the forward-looking work of the WRTA for receiving this grant, and I offer my support as they work on implementing the exciting changes to come.” 

“WRTA is excited to be receiving this grant award as it will allow us to continue the success of building and testing a new transportation options in Mahoning Valley,” said Dean Harris, the Executive Director of the Western Reserve Transit Authority. “This grant will allow WRTA to help test an autonomous shuttle in downtown Youngstown to provide safe and convenient service to link local business and connect WRTA’s fixed routes to the rest of the Valley.”

This grant is part of the FTA’s attempt to incentivize public transportation which will assist in promoting economic development strategies and enhancing public/private partnerships. Congressman Ryan has been a long-time supporter of the enhanced use of public transportation and the use of public/private partnerships as a significant economic development strategy. 

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