Nashua Transit System is excited to announce that we have been awarded funds from the 2020 Federal Transit Administration’s 5339 Grant Program. These funds total $821,500 and will be used to implement new technologies to improve the passenger experience and overall security. NTS is thrilled to move forward with these new technologies, which will enhance safety, rider accessibility and subsequently make Nashua a more connected community.
The funding from the 5339 Grant provides us with an excellent opportunity to enhance the safety and reliability of our bus system. The addition of live bus tracking will enhance the experience of our current passengers while attracting new riders who prefer the ease of a mobile app. We are excited to implement these improvements to our system and increase overall mobility among Nashua’s residents,
said Camille Pattison, Transportation Manager for Nashua Transit System.
Nashua Transit System is always seeking to attract more riders as well as making transit more accessible to all. A critical barrier to ushering in a new generation of riders is the lack of modern technology. This grant will allow NTS to obtain the passenger technologies that have become standard in the transit industry.
Live GTFS feed will provide real time bus information accessible through a number of transit mobile apps. Real time bus arrival and departure information will be accessible to all riders at the Transit Center via internal and external digital monitors which will display arrival and departure location information right at the platform.
Wi-Fi will also be integrated at the Transit Center and on all buses. This will dramatically improve the experience for passengers who may have mobile phones, but no access to cellular data. The addition of Wi-Fi will provide this group of riders with access to the same technology as riders with cellular access, enabling them to access online bus schedules and use our mobile ticketing app to purchase passes electronically.
In addition, to rider technologies, NTS seeks to utilize a portion of the grant funds to introduce security enhancements at the Transit Center including an upgraded surveillance system, improved lighting, and a loud speaker on the bus platform. These additions will improve the overall safety of the Transit Center and the greater vicinity.
Nashua Transit System is grateful of the continued support from the NH Legislative Delegation, NH Department of Transportation, the Nashua Regional Planning Commission & Nashua Regional Coordinating Council in helping us make this grant a reality.
About the 5339 Grant
The Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program (49 U.S.C. 5339) are nationally competitive funds available to states and direct recipients for a variety of projects geared at improving the condition of bus infrastructure. Funds may be used to replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses and related equipment and to construct bus-related facilities.
