Federal Transit Administration

Last week, FTA signed a nearly $70 million grant agreement with Sound Transit to support building 2 new bus rapid transit stations for the future Stride S1 line in South King County, WA as part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods (RCN) program. The Tukwila International Station will include pedestrian bridges and other safety elements, improving connectivity and efficiency. The South Renton Transit Center will be a community hub with affordable housing nearby. RCN is a departmental initiative established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to break down transportation barriers, create opportunities, and enhance safety and transit access. bit.ly/3ZyBTfG

New Yorkers & visitors to the Big Apple: Experience a ride through history as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority reintroduces vintage 1930s-era R1-9 railcars. In partnership with the New York Transit Museum, these historic trains, a nostalgic tribute to the Big Apple’s transit heritage, will run on the next 2 Sundays in lower Manhattan. The cars feature paddle ceiling fans, old-style lighting and vintage advertisements. New Yorkers are embracing the bygone era by dressing in 1930s-inspired fashion. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to relive the golden age of subway travel. bit.ly/4fk6DHe 🎩🕰️

Looking for a summer internship? FTA’s BOOST Internship Program offers college students a 10-week opportunity to support impactful transit projects, build professional skills, and expand their networks. Interns will work in FTA offices nationwide, supporting critical transit systems across the U.S. Undergraduate and graduate students from underrepresented backgrounds in federal government are encouraged to apply by January 20, 2025. bit.ly/3VO77OZ

Big news for Salt Lake County: Today, FTA Deputy Administrator Veronica Vanterpool signed a $62.8 million grant agreement with Utah Transit Authority to build the Midvalley Express, a 7-mile, 15-station all-electric BRT line. With dedicated bus lanes and traffic signal priority, the line will offer fast and frequent service while spurring economic development near activity centers like Valley Fair Shopping Center and Intermountain Medical Center. Fare-free for its first 5 years, it will also connect students at Salt Lake Community College, riders using FrontRunner and TRAX, and future Olympic visitors to the 2034 Games. bit.ly/41HSwIu

FTA is proud to celebrate the exceptional work of the women leading our regional offices. Eight of our leaders were featured in the Winter 2025 issue of the Federal Highway Administration’s Public Roads magazine. Representing three-quarters of FTA’s management team, these visionary women drive innovation, foster support for transit at the regional level, and help build stronger, more connected communities. The article, authored by Mary Leary, FTA’s associate administrator for research, demonstration & innovation, shares inspiring stories of how these leaders got here and what lies ahead. bit.ly/3Zj0W6t

In a major step forward for San Antonio, FTA Deputy Administrator Veronica Vanterpool signed a $268 million grant agreement with VIA Metropolitan Transit to build the Rapid Green Line, the city’s first high-capacity BRT project. One of the largest transit investments in the region’s history, the BRT route will connect to San Antonio International Airport, downtown San Antonio, the Alamo and the River Walk. With 25 stations, 8 miles of dedicated bus lanes, and 17 low-emission vehicles, the Rapid Green Line promises fast, more sustainable, and accessible transit, improving connectivity and quality of life for residents and visitors to San Antonio. bit.ly/4glpSkW 

Transit is more than just transportation—it’s a lifeline that brings communities together. We’re proud to see MBTA and MassDOT using their platforms to make a meaningful impact this holiday season!

Located north of the Arctic Circle, Allakaket Village in Alaska recently launched its first-ever transit service with the arrival of a new transit van. Funded by FTA’s Tribal Transit Program, this vital service provides safe, reliable transportation for all 177 residents, including people with disabilities, just as the long Arctic winter begins. In a region where moose, bears, and wolves often roam, the new transit program is more than a convenience—it’s a critical safeguard that protects residents’ well-being. According to the Village’s transit driver, “The Village kids love to ride in a warm vehicle to school and home every day, and the Village elders are enjoying trips to the store and post office.”

FTA recently hosted a webinar addressing ways to reduce light rail, streetcar and trolley collisions. The session included a summary of our recent safety advisory and outlined expectations for state safety oversight & rail transit agencies. Learn more: bit.ly/3sd4vuB

Transit agencies: Remember to submit your responses before the December 26 deadline!