Transit Support Grant
Forecasted
Transit Support Grant supports Washington transit agencies’ operations, vehicles, equipment, and construction while advancing zero-fare, low-barrier travel for riders age 18 and younger.
Funder: Washington State Department of Transportation
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Annual ridership reporting)
Funding Amounts: $188.9 million for the 2025–2027 biennium; no match required; 35% maximum per agency
Summary: Formula funding supports Washington transit agencies’ operating and capital expenses while requiring zero-fare, low-barrier travel for riders 18 and younger.
Key Information: Funding is distributed by formula, not competitive application, and requires biennial certification of agency compliance.
Description
The Transit Support Grant provides operating and capital support to transit agencies across Washington state. WSDOT’s Public Transportation Division administers the program, established by the Legislature in 2022 through the Move Ahead Washington transportation funding package. Eligible work includes transit service, vehicle and equipment purchases, construction supporting transit service, and other transit-related projects such as training and mobility management.
The program receives all its funding through Washington’s Climate Commitment Act, which directs cap-and-invest revenue toward reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Funding is tied to maintaining local sales tax support for transit and providing zero-fare, low-barrier access for everyone age 18 and younger across all agency-operated modes, including paratransit.
