TRANSIT STUDIES AND APPLICATIONS
In 1994, the MMDC published Transit Need Assesment Studies for each of the four counties in Region 6E.  Working with transit committees in each of the counties and MN/DOT Office of Transit, who funded the studies, the reports demonstrated the need for county wide transit programs within the region.  The results of the study led the way for Mn/DOT to authorize funding transit systems in Meeker and Renville counties.
With the availability of Mn/DOT expansion dollars, Kandiyohi and McLeod counties are starting up transit programs within their counties.  The current city systems in Willmar and Hutchinson will be incorporated into the county systems.  MMDC staff has been involved with the planning of these new systems. MMDC will continue to take a lead role in helping all organizations in the region, who provide transportation services, coordinate and cooperate with each other to provide the best service at the most affordable cost. MMDC provides information to organizations interested in applying for 5310 funds to purchase a vehicle to transport clients.  The Section 5310 program funds are for organizations that assist elderly and/or handicapped persons. The Mid-Minnesota Area Agency on Aging provides funding for transportation of elderly services in each of the four counties.  Please see the Area Agency on Aging section of this web site for further details. MMDC staff sits on a Welfare to Work Transportation Committee in Region 6E that has developed transportation programs to assist with getting people to and from work.
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