The Minnesota Department of Transportation has $4.2 million in federal funding for cities, counties and transit service providers to help serve the transportation needs of the elderly and persons with disabilities. The deadline to apply is June 29.

Entities eligible for the funding are tribal governments, state and local governments, private nonprofit organizations and operators of public and private transportation services.

Two categories of funding are available. The vehicle capital assistance is for the purchase of vehicles that  support enhanced transportation services for senior citizens and disabled individuals. The transportation coordination funding links transportation providers directly with human services agencies and other stakeholders on a regional scale.

“In the areas where public transit is inadequate or inappropriate, this funding will improve mobility for special populations and provide financial assistance for planned transportation services to improve the safety of their operations,” said Robert Clarksen, transit program manager.

Funding allocations are made by MnDOT on an annual, competitive basis. The program requires a 20 percent local share.

Applicants may apply online at www.mndot.gov/transit/grants/5310/. Awards will be announced in September.

Since 2005, MnDOT has leveraged federal support in excess of $20 million for similar programs throughout the state. The funding is administered by the Federal Transit Administration’s Section 5310 program to improve mobility by removing barriers for the special transportation needs of seniors and disabled populations and expanding the transportation mobility options available.