Building Biking Capacity in Arizona's Rural Communities
GrantID: 448
Grant Funding Amount Low: $25,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $100,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Capacity Constraints in Arizona's Rural Transportation
In Arizona, rural residents face significant capacity constraints regarding access to effective and reliable transportation. The Arizona Department of Transportation notes that rural areas in the state have experienced declining transit capacity, particularly in regions like Apache and Navajo counties, which have sparse populations and extensive geographic distances. The lack of reliable transit options creates barriers for residents to access employment opportunities, healthcare, and education, and ultimately plays a role in perpetuating socioeconomic disparities in these regions.
Low-income individuals and families often struggle the most with transportation-related constraints. Many lack personal vehicles and rely on public transportation, which is limited or non-existent in some rural areas. As a result, individuals often miss job interviews, medical appointments, and crucial school events, leading to a cycle of missed opportunities and challenges. For instance, around 30% of rural residents reported difficulty in reaching work or school due to inadequate transportation options, while rural students often face high dropout rates linked to travel-related issues.
This grant opportunity is designed to create innovative, community-driven solutions such as a bike share program tailored to serve the transportation needs of rural residents in Arizona. By implementing bike share systems, the initiative aims to provide affordable, environmentally friendly, and flexible transportation options. This community-centric approach enables individuals to reach work, educational facilities, and health services without the burden of relying entirely on traditional public transit systems.
The anticipated outcomes include increasing mobility among low-income individuals and families, ultimately facilitating better access to jobs and educational opportunities. This program emphasizes community involvement in its design to ensure that it caters to the specific needs of residents, supporting sustainable transportation solutions while encouraging fitness and environmental responsibility.
In summary, while Arizona's urban centers may benefit from robust transit networks, rural areas experience significant challenges in accessing transportation. The funding from this grant presents an important opportunity to build capacity and enhance the mobility of Arizona’s rural residents, ultimately supporting their ability to engage with essential services and improving their economic standing.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
