Empowered by Transit
Federal Policy Priorities
The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority’s federal priorities are guided by its 2026–2031 Strategic Plan, which is centered on driving community success through safe, reliable, and caring transit service. TARTA’s vision is to build a community on the move—where public transportation powers economic opportunity, workforce access, and long-term regional vitality.
Federal investment is essential to advancing this vision by enabling system modernization, service expansion, workforce development, and innovation that connects residents to jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services while strengthening Northwest Ohio’s economic competitiveness.
Policy Priorities
Full funding for public transportation programs at least at the amounts authorized by the IIJA. Specific programs include:
- Grants for Bus and Bus Facilities Program
- Local and Regional Project Assistance Program Grants under National Infrastructure Investments Federal public transportation programs that support economic development policies like transit-oriented development
- Urbanized Area Formula Grants under 5307
Surface Transportation Reauthorization
As outlined in TARTA’s Strategic Plan, operational excellence, safety, and stewardship depend on modern fleets, well-maintained facilities, and a stable workforce.
Bus Manufacturing Incentives
Promote domestic bus manufacturing by investing in workforce development, improving efficiency, and addressing supply chain challenges to ensure timely, reliable production.
FTA Reporting & Spare Ratio Reforms
Advocate for greater flexibility and streamlined federal processes to support transit agencies, including simplified reporting, grant applications, and regulatory reviews.
Fleet & Facilities Management
Support fleet management funding, workforce development, and policy reforms to reduce delays, control costs, and reinvest in transit vehicles.
Safety & Security
Federal investments in transit safety and security are essential to protecting frontline workers, enhancing rider confidence, and ensuring agencies can respond effectively to evolving risks.
Vehicle Monitoring & Maintenance
Reconfigure and upgrade maintenance facilities to improve workflow, safety, and equipment management.
Bus Rapid Transit
BRT is a cornerstone of TARTA’s long-term growth and innovation strategy, designed to deliver faster, more reliable service while supporting economic development and regional connectivity.
Workforce Development
Through targeted service adjustments and partnerships with employers, healthcare providers, and workforce organizations, TARTA has demonstrated the role transit plays in connecting people to opportunity and supporting regional economic growth.
TARTA Mobility District
The Toledo Mobility District represents a transformative opportunity to integrate local transit, intercity bus, and passenger rail into a modern, multimodal mobility hub that strengthens downtown Toledo and the surrounding region.
Paratransit Services
TARTA Move, provides ADA-compliant, door-to-door service for riders with disabilities, while TARTA Flex extends accessible, on-demand microtransit to suburban and low-density areas.
If interested in being included as a participant of the LOCHSTP or to provide further comments or questions email ssmith@tarta.com
Empowering people to make connections.