Investing in historically underserved communities around Oregon
Dec. 17, 2024
For more information, contact Anna Howe, 503-877-7101.
SALEM -- In 2024, ODOT’s Innovative Mobility Program provided microgrants of up to $15,000 for 26 projects to increase access to public and active transportation for historically underserved communities. In the 2024 grant cycle, more than $330,000 has been invested in projects in Multnomah, Hood River, Washington, Polk, Linn, Benton, Lane, Deschutes, Malheur, Umatilla and Baker counties.
You can find the full list of recipients and a description of their projects here.
Here are just five of the great projects ODOT invested in this year:
- The Corvallis Bicycle Collective received funding to collaborate with Corvallis for Refugees and provide refurbished bicycles and safety gear to incoming refugees.
- In Multnomah County, the Blanchet House of Hospitality received funding to host recurring bike repair clinics for people with low incomes and people experiencing homelessness.
- The African Family Holistic Health Organization received funding to host community engagement events and provide subsidized fare for the Black Diaspora community throughout Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties.
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Commute Options for Central Oregon received funding to host a series of bicycle safety rodeos that will reach youth from underserved communities with limited English proficiency.
- The City of Pendleton received funding to pilot a new bus route, creating new connections for downtown Pendleton, the regional airport, local businesses and a low-income neighborhood.
“Our microgrant program responds to community needs in a timely and effective way,” said Suzanne Carlson, Administrator for ODOT’s Public Transportation Division. “These projects are great examples of how small, community-driven investments can improve our transportation system for everyone.”
Bike shed at the dual-language Mid Valley Elementary School in Odell, funded by past microgrant.
The microgrant program began in late 2022, offering $5,000 grant awards to support immediate community needs like helmets, transit passes, adaptive bikes, bicycle safety education, and much more. In response to community feedback, ODOT was able to provide grants up to $15,000 for the first time in 2024.
The grants are funded by state dollars and provide opportunities to support events, demonstration projects, outreach and education, and minor infrastructure projects.
About the Innovative Mobility Program
With the Innovative Mobility Program, ODOT aims to improve historically underserved communities' access to public and active transportation. Program goals also include reducing the number of trips Oregonians make by car and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The program is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed by Congress in November 2021, as well as State of Oregon dollars. The program has a total of $20 million for grants, contracts, and administration.
Learn more on our website: Oregon Department of Transportation Innovative Mobility Program.
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