Nebraska Opened Mobility Grant Applications

Non-profits and local governments can now apply for federal transit funds to support seniors and those with disabilities.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Special Needs

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The Nebraska Department of Transportation has opened applications for federal transit grants to improve mobility for seniors and residents with disabilities in rural communities. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Nebraska Department of Transportation has launched the application process for the federal Section 5310 grant program. This initiative provides transit funding for seniors and individuals with disabilities in rural areas, small urban communities, and Lincoln.

Why it matters

This program aims to improve mobility for community members who lack access to appropriate or sufficient mass transportation. By providing federal resources, the state helps bridge essential service gaps for vulnerable households.

The Section 5310 program offers federal grant support for organizations serving seniors and residents with disabilities. Applicants must be non-profit organizations or local governments in qualifying areas.

The players

Nebraska Department of Transportation

The state agency responsible for managing federal infrastructure funds and overseeing transit planning and accessibility programs for Nebraska residents.

MAPA

The Metropolitan Area Planning Agency that coordinates transportation and urban planning services specifically for the Omaha region.

The details

To receive funding, eligible private non-profit organizations must submit an application directly to the Nebraska Department of Transportation. If a governmental entity applies, it must formally certify that no local non-profit agency is capable of providing the necessary service in its area. The funds are designated specifically for areas outside of Omaha, which manages its transit grants through a separate regional entity.

Timeline

  1. October 6, 2026: The Nebraska Department of Transportation announced the opening of the grant application process.

The Home Front

This state application cycle follows the federal guidelines of the Section 5310 program, which provides a consistent funding stream for rural and urban mobility. These grants remain a critical resource for local non-profits working to offset the lack of public transit in underserved areas.

Families seeking specialized transportation services should reach out to their local non-profit service providers to confirm if they are participating in this grant cycle. Residents in the Omaha area should contact MAPA directly for information regarding transit accessibility in their specific neighborhood.

The takeaway

The Section 5310 program provides a vital lifeline for seniors and people with disabilities who require reliable transportation. Contact your local non-profit or the Nebraska Department of Transportation to inquire about existing transportation initiatives in your community.

Further reading

Learn more about support resources for residents by visiting Special Needs.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Yankton Press & Dakotan.

Live Poll

Do you believe local transit programs sufficiently support the transportation needs of seniors and disabled residents?