The US Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has released the projects that are eligible for its Bus and Bus Facilities Grant Programme to ensure a more modern, reliable bus service for transit riders across the country.

Under the programme, 61 projects in 41 states, the Virgin Islands, and Indian Country will receive a share of approximately $211m for replacing, rehabilitating, and purchasing of new transit buses and related equipment, as well as for the construction of bus-related facilities.

US Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said: “The Obama Administration is committed to improving transportation options that connect people in rural and urban areas across the country to opportunities.

"These grants will improve mobility for thousands of transit riders who depend on bus services every day, expanding access to employment, education, healthcare, and other important services in their communities."

“These grants will improve mobility for thousands of transit riders who depend on bus services every day, expanding access to employment, education, healthcare, and other important services in their communities.”

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will receive approximately $5.8m for the expansion and replacement of transit vehicles that serve rural counties throughout the state.

The Mass Transportation Authority in Flint, Michigan, will get $12.8m for the purchase of compressed natural gas (CNG) buses and a workforce development training programme for mechanics and bus drivers.

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) will receive $4m to rehabilitate the Wissahickon Transit Center on the Manayunk/Norristown Line in Northwest Philadelphia.

FTA administrator Carolyn Flowers said: “FTA is proud to partner with state, local and tribal authorities to invest in projects that will help improve the condition of our nation’s public transportation bus fleets.

“Maintaining our public transit systems in a state of good repair is vitally important to meet the needs of today’s transit riders and a growing population.”

FTA received nearly 285 applications totaling $1.64bn from 236 applicants in 47 states.