Section 5310 Program
Have your say on the Section 5310 Public Management Plan
We’re inviting the public to provide feedback on our updates to the Section 5310 Program Management Plan.
This plan is used to help manage federal funds aimed at improving transportation for seniors and people with disabilities. It ensures STA follows federal rules and uses the funds correctly. The plan includes guidelines on how STA can use these funds to support accessible and effective transportation services for those who need them. More information can be found on our Public Notices page.
See a draft version of the plan below:
Section 5310 Program Management Plan (PDF)
Written comments may be sent to: Madeline Arredondo, Associate Transit Planner, Spokane Transit Authority, 701 West Riverside Avenue, Spokane, Washington, 99201, or by email to [email protected].
The deadline to add your comment is July 3, 2026.
Your input ensures we’re using state funds in a way that best meets the needs of the Spokane community. Thank you for your participation!
Section 5310 is a federal grant program provided by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
This program provides funding to organizations that address transportation gaps and enhance mobility for seniors and people with disabilities. Examples include:
- Expanding rural transit options
- Improving access to medical appointments
- Increasing the availability of paratransit services
STA is responsible for reviewing applications for Section 5310 funding from Spokane-area organizations.
Eligible Projects
Section 5310 funds can help cover two types of projects: Traditional and Other.
Traditional Projects
Traditional Projects focus on improving infrastructure and equipment needed for accessible transportation, including:
- ADA improvements such as sidewalks, curb ramps, and signage
- Purchasing new ADA-compliant vehicles
- Supporting mobility management and coordination programs, like short-range planning and management activities
Other Projects
Other Projects are geared toward enhancing the day-to-day operation of transportation services, including:
- Travel training programs that help people transition from paratransit to fixed-route public transit
- Covering operating expenses for transportation services
- Running paid volunteer driver programs
Additional requirements
To qualify for Section 5310 funds, there are some additional project requirements:
- The project type must be listed in the Human Services Coordinated Transportation Plan (HSTP), released by the Spokane Regional Transportation Council (SRTC).
- The project must start or end in the Spokane urbanized area.
- The project must demonstrate clear, measurable benefits for seniors or people with disabilities.
Eligible Organizations
Eligible organizations can include:
- Private entities
- Non-profit organizations
- Local government entities
- Other providers of public transportation* that serve seniors and individuals with disabilities
Eligible applicants for the “Traditional” category must be either a private non-profit organization or a local government authority approved by the state of Washington to coordinate services for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Eligible applicants for the “Other” category include local government authorities or private non-profit organizations.
*To be considered a public transportation provider, an agency must offer “shared-ride” services, meaning they transport two or more passengers in the same vehicle, even if the passengers are not traveling together. This is different from taxi services, which provide rides for just one person or group at a time. Public transportation providers can be public or private agencies.
Contact
Looking for more information, or need help filling in your application?
Contact the Associate Transit Planner Emilio Bustos:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (509) 344-2609