Jacksonville Transit Authority Secures $17 Million in Federal Funding

This morning, the Office of Management and Budget announced the President’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2017, and it includes $17 million for the Jacksonville Transportation Authority’s (JTA) First Coast Flyer (Bus Rapid Transit) East Corridor Project. The project includes the purchase and deployment of 19 new energy-efficient CNG buses.

Funding was proposed under the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Capital Investment Grants. The President’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2017 requests $3.5 billion to support the construction of major capital projects that provide new and expanded transit service, important economic benefits to communities, and help address existing fixed-guideway transit corridors that are at or near capacity. The President’s Budget supports 31 high-impact projects in 18 States.

“We are grateful for the ongoing support from Congressman Ander Crenshaw, Congresswoman Corrine Brown, and Senator Bill Nelson,” said JTA Chief Executive Officer Nathaniel P. Ford Sr. “Their support will ensure funding is secured to expand frequent and reliable transportation on quiet, energy efficient compressed natural gas buses, making is easier for First Coast residents to get to work, school and doctor appointments.”

The 18.5 mile East Corridor is the fourth segment of a five-phased First Coast Flyer system planned for the Jacksonville area. The $33.9 million project is funded by the FTA, Florida Department of Transportation and the JTA. When completed in 2019, the Flyer system will cover 57 miles of destination travel, and will be the largest bus rapid transit system of its kind in the Southeast.