Kaptur drives transit funds to Ottawa County

PORT CLINTON — The Ottawa County Transportation Agency could update its fleet with federal grant funds in the near future.

The U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced the local agency will receive part of a $6.7 million grant awarded to the Ohio Department of Transportation.

The grant allows public transportation systems in rural communities to update or replace old vehicles. Ottawa County is one of 35 counties across the state to qualify for a slice of these funds, according to a news release.

U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Toledo, said she will oversee efforts to bring a portion of these funds to Ottawa County’s transportation agency.

“The role of public transportation is often associated with large cities, but it’s even more important to smaller, more rural communities, including those in Ottawa County,” Kaptur said. “These funds are an investment in a good quality of life and a better standard of living.”

Kaptur is a member the House Appropriations Committee, which has oversight of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The grant program is competitive and primarily used to replace old and costly vehicles or equipment. The grant specifically supports projects that promote low or zero-emission vehicles, according to the release.

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