Governor Doyle approves $70,000 for specialized public transit in Madison

April 2, 2008

Governor Jim Doyle has approved a $69,669 grant for Union Cab, a Madison taxi service, to enhance local transportation options for Madison citizens with disabilities. Union Cab will use the matching grant to purchase two accessible vans and to expand services.

New Freedom program funds, administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, are awarded for capital and operating expenses. The matching grant program provides 50 percent to 80 percent of project costs, depending on whether the request is for capital or operating expenses.

"New Freedom provides more transportation options than those currently available to individuals with disabilities," said Governor Doyle. "Those of us who are not disabled often take our mobility for granted. People with disabilities should have equal access to work, appointments and the full range of local cultural activities."

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, local governments and operators of public transportation services. The next grant cycle will be announced later this year.

For information contact:
John Alley, Chief, Public and Specialized Transit Section
(608) 266-0189, john.alley@dot.state.wi.us