March 2, 2012
NJT-12-018

NEWARK, NJ — NJ TRANSIT has announced that the Fiscal Year 2012 annual application process to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for funds to purchase fully accessible vans and minibuses for the transportation of senior citizens and people with disabilities through the FTA Section 5310 Grant Program is underway.  NJ TRANSIT is designated to coordinate and review all organization applications and submit a consolidated statewide application to the federal government.

Since 1981 NJ TRANSIT has purchased more than 1,400 vehicles for organizations serving seniors and persons with disabilities throughout the State of New Jersey.  It is anticipated that available funding for Fiscal Year 2012 will allow NJ TRANSIT to purchase approximately 50 to 60 new vans and minibuses.

The grant process is comprised of four steps.  First, an agency and/or organization requests and then completes an application.  Second, NJ TRANSIT reviews the applications received and makes selections for inclusion in the federal grant based upon established criteria.  The third step is the federal review and grant approval process.  Finally, after receiving the federal grant approval, NJ TRANSIT goes out to bid for the vehicles. 

Once the vehicles are delivered, NJ TRANSIT will enter into a no-fee agreement with the approved applicants.

The process is open to eligible private non-profit agencies as well as pre-certified public groups.  Private non-profit organizations interested in applying or finding out more about the program may request an application in writing to:

NJ TRANSIT

Local Programs and Minibus Support

One Penn Plaza East – 4^th Floor

Newark, NJ 07105-2246

Attn:  Section 5310 Program

A copy of the application is also available online at: www.njcttp.org/united  

Requests for an application can also be faxed to NJ TRANSIT at 973-461-4432; or call 973-491-7372. 

All applications must be postmarked by April 6, 2012.  NJ TRANSIT requires two copies of all applications with original signatures.  Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

The insurance, fuel, and maintenance costs of operating a vehicle are the responsibility of the applicant.  In most cases a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) will be required to operate these vehicles.  In addition, the federal government requires that operators with a CDL participate in a certified drug and alcohol-testing program.

All vehicles have diesel engines and are lift-equipped in order to accommodate mobility devices.

About NJ TRANSIT

NJ TRANSIT is the nation's largest statewide public transportation system providing more than 895,000 weekday trips on 240 bus routes, three light rail lines, 12 commuter rail lines and through Access Link paratransit service. It is the third largest transit system in the country with 164 rail stations, 60 light rail stations and more than 19,000 bus stops linking major points in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia.