PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:
(1) To foster innovation in public transit systems, through local demonstrations of promising, but risky, new technologies and service or operational concepts to provide information that can be used nationally, wherever sound decisions are needed on how best to improve service or reduce costs. The National Program emphasizes advanced technology applications which complement private sector R&D, enhancing the vitality, competitiveness and responsiveness of America's industrial base so that it can better serve domestic needs and foster export markets. (2) To address economic and social issues resulting from human impacts on the environment, and develop risk assessment methodologies, integrated assessments, and other analytical tools for effective policy formulation. The program provides funds for assessing and improving local transportation conditions through innovative planning tools, assessing the condition of the transit industry, and providing technical support in safety, security, and drug and alcohol control. (3) To develop practical know-how for solving fundamental industry-wide problems, such as how to accommodate the travel needs of persons with disabilities, how to finance transit infrastructure construction and maintenance, and how to meet requirements of the Clean Air Act, and (4) To support development of information and technical assistance to convey results of research, technology development and innovative demonstrations for adaptation and local implementation.

 ELIGIBLE FUNCTIONAL CATEGORIES:
1. TRANSPORTATION;
- Urban Mass Transit;

 WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM THIS PROGRAM:
- State;
- Local;
- Public nonprofit institution/organization;
- Other public institution/organization;
- Private non-profit institution/organization;

 WHO CAN APPLY:
- State (includes District of Columbia, public institutions of higher education and hospitals);
- Local (includes State-designated Indian Tribes, excludes institutions of higher education and hospitals);
- Public non-profit institution/organization (includes institutions of higher education and hospitals);
- Other public institution/organization;
- Private non-profit institution/organization (includes institutions of higher education and hospitals);