Transit Programs

Public transit in Nevada ranges from modern Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in Urban Areas to Para transit buses providing service to the elderly and disabled located in remote locations.

Outside of the Urbanized Areas, many Nevada residents depend on rural transit systems for connection to the Urbanized Areas as well as maintaining their quality of life. Buses in rural Nevada provide more than 1 million rides and travel over 5 million miles per year.

The NDOT Transit Section is responsible for helping in the creation and continuation of these services by administering the following Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Grants on an annual basis for the Rural and Small Urban (5311) program.

Services include general fixed route public transit, demand response Para transit services, intercity bus services, and daily rides for the elderly and disabled. NDOT also provides Planning Funds to the MPOs for the betterment of transit services statewide.

FTA program specific information and eligibility requirements:

• This program (49 U.S.C. 5311) provides funding for the purpose of supporting public transportation in areas of less than 50,000 populations. The funding requires a 50% local match.

  Eligibility Requirements: Eligible sub-recipients are local public bodies, Indian tribes, nonprofit organizations, and operators of public transportation services.

  Eligible Activities: Capital expenses, operating expenses, and intercity bus service.

State Management Plan for the 5311 Program 
FTA Circular: Rural and Small Urban Areas