Rendell announces community transit grant for Pike

HARRISBURG — Pike County will receive $63,000 in a state transit accessibility grant program announced Wednesday, by Governor Ed Rendell. The grant money means that Pennsylvania residents will soon have newer, wheelchair-accessible transit vehicles and the shared-ride companies that operate them will be able to buy new computers, communications and garage equipment with Pennsylvania’s latest $8.7 million investment. Shared-ride services are available to senior citizens, persons with disabilities and the general public. Last year, more than 5.1 million one-way trips were provided to senior citizens and persons with disabilities at reduced fares. Under the transportation bill Governor Rendell signed in July, the community transportation program is now funded under the programs of statewide significance using a combination of state and federal dollars. PennDOT reviews the applications and awards the grants. Elsewhere, the Monroe County Transportation Authority received $132,815 and Wayne County got $192,860 under the same grant.