New Freedom Program (5317)

From the FTA (http://www.fta.dot.gov/funding/grants/grants_financing_3549.html)

The New Freedom formula grant program aims to provide additional tools to overcome existing barriers facing Americans with disabilities seeking integration into the work force and full participation in society.  Lack of adequate transportation is a primary barrier to work for individuals with disabilities.  The 2000 Census showed that only 60 percent of people between the ages of 16 and 64 with disabilities are employed.  The New Freedom formula grant program seeks to reduce barriers to transportation services and expand the transportation mobility options available to people with disabilities beyond the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.

Eligible recipients:  States and public bodies are eligible designated recipients.  Eligible subrecipients are private non-profit organizations, State or local governments, and operators of public transportation services including private operators of public transportation services.

Eligible Activities:  Capital and operating expenses for new public transportation services and new public transportation alternatives beyond those required by the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), that are designed to assist individuals with disabilities.