ETA Next Steps and Other Resources
Moving forward, DVRPC will work on projects geared toward implementation of the bridges identified in the ETA project. Related projects currently underway include:
Interagency Coordination for Long-Distance Human Service Transportation in Mercer County
DVRPC organized a Regional Coordination Workshop designed to facilitate and increase interagency coordination for long-distance human service transportation in Mercer County and adjoining areas in February 2017. The goal of this workshop is to identify service area gaps and overlaps specific to human service transportation, learn about regional destinations outside providers’ service areas, and then brainstorm and prioritize coordination opportunities and interconnection points that will increase service efficiency for all users and increase access to regional destinations.
City of Camden Transportation Gaps Study
In support of Get Healthy Camden’s ambitious work and to further some of the policy recommendations identified in ETA, DVRPC is undertaking a “Transportation Gaps Study” to better understand the unmet mobility needs of Camden residents. The study is partially funded by the Campbell Soup Company’s Healthy Communities initiative. This multi-year study will specifically examine Camden residents’ access to nearby health-related amenities, such as food stores, community health centers, and daycares, and coordinate with other Healthy Communities funding partners who are already engaged in transportation access issues.
Competitive Funding Programs
Section 5310 is a competitive program in Pennsylvania and New Jersey that provides formula funding to states for the purpose of assisting private nonprofit groups in meeting the transportation needs of older adults and people with disabilities when the transportation service provided is unavailable, insufficient, or inappropriate to meeting these needs. DVRPC advises project applicants to refer to the ETA “Gaps and Bridges” when submitting applications for funding. These reflect agreed-upon regional goals and priorities, and will document consistency with the regional plan when submitting Section 5310 applications. Please note that while DVRPC supports Section 5310 projects that will enhance the mobility of seniors and individuals with disabilities, it cannot offer official endorsements or letters of support for individual projects.
DVRPC welcomes hearing about other projects or initiatives that relate to the ETA project in order to continue to inform our work and highlight best practices. DVRPC is committed to showcasing more of these best practices on this website by continuing to add case studies or list applicable funding opportunities.