CAT Secures Grant Funding for CAT Bike, Savannah Belles Ferry

Chatham Area Transit Authority (CAT) is proud to announce the award of federal grant money to expand its bike sharing program and to renovate ferry landings.

Like transit agencies all across the country, CAT is faced with dwindling sources of local and federal funding and continuously seeks out alternative avenues for revenue. Federal grant funding typically offers the greatest return at the lowest investment, with a usual 80/20 split.

Under MAP-21, FTA’s Passenger Ferry Grant Program provides funding through a competitive application process. Funds are awarded based on factors such as the benefits to riders and connectivity to other modes of transportation. CAT will receive $374,400 to renovate the ferry landings to improve access for people with disabilities, improve safety, and accommodate increasing demand. This grant funding is a 90/10 split because the updates are ADA related, and CAT is working with the Trade Center to cover the local match required. The Savannah Belles Ferry is a free service that runs seven days a week between River Street and Hutchinson Island, home of the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center. It is part of the multi-modal fare-free ‘dot’ service CAT operates throughout downtown Savannah via shuttle, streetcar, and ferry.

CAT Bike proposed downtown expansion mapThe Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) is also part of MAP-21, providing funding through a competitive process for non-motorized infrastructure projects. CAT will receive $175,048 to expand the CAT Bike program by five (5) new stations and forty (40) new bikes. Plans call for the stations to be installed throughout the downtown area, and excitement is already growing among locals and tourists for the upcoming expansion. Businesses interested in partnering with CAT on station placement and purchase should contact CAT Bike.

Click on the map to view larger image.

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