SALEM – The Oregon Department of Transportation today announced the opening of applications for the agency’s new Innovative Mobility Micro-Grants. The $5,000 grants are the first project to come forward from the Innovative Mobility Program, a new initiative created in spring 2022. The $20 million Innovative Mobility Program aims to make it easier for Oregonians to walk, bike, roll, share rides and take transit. The program has a special focus on equity and helping historically excluded groups get to where they need to go more quickly, cheaply and safely. “There’s a major transportation evolution happening across the country, and we have a chance to make sure that communities of color and other marginalized individuals who have been excluded in the past have place, purpose and priority in Oregon’s future transportation investments,” said Alando Simpson, vice chair of the Oregon Transportation Commission. “The Innovative Mobility Program will combine new technologies and smarter partnerships to meet Oregon’s transportation needs in ways that are more equitable and climate-friendly than single-occupancy vehicles that run on fossil fuels.” ODOT is currently engaging community-based organizations, transportation providers and the public on the kinds of services they want from the Innovative Mobility Program. You can help ODOT understand transportation needs in your community by taking the survey linked in English and Spanish. “Safe and equitable access to public and active transportation is critical for the 1/3 of Oregonians who don’t have a car, as well as those who choose not to drive,” said Karyn Criswell, Public Transportation Division administrator. “While we engage the community in designing the program, micro-grants are a way that folks can start accessing innovative mobility funds right now.” The micro-grant application form can be found here. Local governments, public transportation providers, Tribes and certified nonprofits are eligible and encouraged to apply. Organizations are limited to two grants in a 12-month period, and eligible activities include community events, safety education and awareness activities, maps, signage, bike helmets, racks and locks and repair stations.
