M4A Grants

The Mobility 4 All (M4A) Program is an RTA initiative to improve mobility for seniors, people with disabilities, and individuals with limited income. Based on the M4A Plan, the RTA allocates and administers funds that improve and sustain specialized services and improve transit access. M4A funding includes Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds allocated to the region under Section 5310 – its program for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The RTA is the sole local source for Section 5310 Funds.

Who Benefits?

Everyone in Southeast Michigan benefits from M4A, because an accessible, sustainable, livable community improves all of our lives. M4A provides funding opportunities for local agencies, non-profits, and transportation providers that align with the program’s goals and meet all requirements.

M4A grants support initiatives focused on enhancing or expanding transportation services and access for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services help these populations as well as our broader community. Projects include the purchase of accessible vehicles, provision of mobility management (or transit navigation) services, and improvement of infrastructure such as sidewalks, curb cuts, and bus stops. Our region is stronger when a teacher with additional mobility needs or a senior citizen looking to volunteer or live independently can get on board.

Spotlight on Success!

See the Program in action! In 2023, the Area Agency on Aging 1-B won an award for MyRide2, and Livonia Community Transit replaced four buses and one van.

How are Funds Distributed? 

Public transportation providers, government entities, and non-profit organizations apply for funding from the RTA. Projects must fit within application requirements and priorities identified in the M4A Plan – or the Coordinated Human Services Transportation Plan. Funding is distributed through a competitive grant process based on a number of factors, such as the applicant’s proposed project and its alignment with the program’s goals and priorities. 

Funding Resources

Many resources and tools are available to assist grant applicants and awardees. These help applicants understand 5310 program requirements and develop strong grant proposals to effectively address the mobility needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities: 

• RTA Technical Assistance: The RTA will provide technical assistance to applicants who are seeking funding through the 5310 program. Technical assistance may include support from RTA staff or access to resources such as webinars. For our 2025 applications, RTA held two webinars and two “office hours” opportunities. 
• FTA Website: The FTA website provides a wealth of information on the 5310 program, including program guidelines, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria. It also includes resources on the grant application process. 
• National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC): The NADTC provides technical assistance, training, and resources to support transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The center offers a variety of resources on topics such as mobility management, accessible transportation, and partnership development. 
• National Center for Mobility Management (NCMM): The NCMM provides technical assistance and resources to support the development and implementation of mobility management programs. These programs aim to improve access to transportation for all individuals, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.