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About the Program
About the Program
The Transit Innovations Grant Program provides funding support for locally driven transit pilot projects aimed at increasing ridership, enhancing service in high-growth areas, and expanding overall transit service.
As provided in Section 59-12-2212.2, for the .10% designated for public transit described in Subsection (3)(a) that is not contractually obligated for debt service, beginning on July 1, 2026, a public transit district shall make available to the Department of Transportation an amount equal to 10% of the .10% to be used for public transit innovation grants as provided in Title 72, Chapter 2, Part 4, Public Transit Innovation Grants. (Title 59, Chapter 12, Part 22, 11b)
Qualifying Districts: UTA, Connect (Cache Valley), and High Valley Transit (Summit County)
The department may expend up to $3,000,000 of revenue deposited into the account as described in Subsection 59-12-2220(11)(b) for public transit innovation grants.
Estimated ~ $3,000,000 For Operations and $5,000,000 TTIF Capital
Program Goals
Program Goals
Increase Transit Ridership
Increase Transit Ridership
Projects that encourage more people to use public transit help reduce congestion, improve air quality, and support a more efficient transportation system.
Increase Transit Service to High-Growth Areas
Increase Transit Service to High-Growth Areas
Rapid population growth requires timely transit investments to maintain access and mobility. Projects under this goal should focus on delivering transit services that meet the demands of fast-growing areas, helping these communities remain connected to employment, education, and essential services.
Expand Overall Transit Service
Expand Overall Transit Service
Expanding overall transit service means increasing the reach, capacity, and quality of public transit to serve more people and provide more travel choices. This goal supports regional mobility and reduces dependence on personal vehicles for access to employment, education, and healthcare.
Eligible Projects
Eligible Projects
Projects that support transit service improvements, connectivity, and access are eligible for funding, including:
Pilot Bus Routes
First- and Last-Mile Connections
On-Demand Transit Services
Projects are chosen according to the project selection criteria described below across six categories:
Financial Commitment
Project Readiness
Service Area
Project Need
Schedule
Level of Innovation
Ineligible Projects: Capital investments, large-scale engineering, and land acquisition are generally not eligible. If you are uncertain about your project’s eligibility, please reach out with any questions to UDOT’s Transit Division. Contact information is provided here.
Eligible Applicants
Eligible Applicants
Based on criteria derived from HB 430, the follow municipalities in the map below are eligible to apply:
Municipalities are eligible based on whether they meet each of the following requirements:
Home county has already enacted four out of its five allotted 4th quarter sales tax increments and is not using the revenue to service debt.
A Municipality with a historical (2013-2022) or projected (2023-2032) population growth surpassing that of the home county.
The municipality falls within a transit special service district as defined by Utah Code Section 17B-2a-8.
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