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Thirty-two years after the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, U.S. rail systems will get a significant boost in federal funds to improve accessibility for all riders. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FTA announced today it will provide $1.75 billion to make it easier for people to get on board at the nation’s oldest rail public transportation systems, including $343 million in a notice of funding availability for fiscal year 2022. The funding will help agencies retrofit subway stations so people who need an elevator or ramp – including people who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility – can still reliably access the rail systems serving their communities.
The All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) is a new discretionary grant program created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will increase access to our transportation system and advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s priorities of promoting equity, addressing the workforce shortage, and boosting economic strength. Funding through ASAP ensures that those relying on rail systems can get to work and school, be less dependent on vehicles, save money, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Inaccessibility is a significant hurdle for riders using rail systems built before 1990, known as legacy systems. Over 900 transit legacy stations are not fully accessible today. ASAP will provide support for transit agencies to repair, improve, modify, retrofit, or relocate infrastructure of stations or facilities for passenger use. Planning activities by transit agencies seeking to improve accessibility also qualify for ASAP funds.
Instructions for applying and eligibility information can be found on FTA’s website and in GRANTS.GOV (FTA-2022-009-TPM-ASAP). Complete proposals must be submitted electronically through the GRANTS.GOV “APPLY” function by September 30, 2022.
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