KATS Receives $1.4 Million Grant

A $1,452,544 grant will allow the KI BOIS Area Transit System (KATS) to purchase new buses, the Oklahoma Transit Authority announced recently.

The funding is part of $464 million in infrastructure grants that were issued in 49 states to improve the safety and reliability of America’s bus system.

Charla Sloan, KATS’ transit director, said that the grant will allow the agency to purchase 21 replacement vehicles that will improve safety, reduce maintenance costs and improve reliability so KATS can continue its critical rural service across 12 counties, including three tribal nations. 

When asked how soon the funding will be available, Sloan said “it will probably be at least a year” before the new buses can be purchased. Sloan noted that two to three new buses will be purchased for use in Sallisaw. “The City of Sallisaw has always been very supportive of us with matching money,” she said. “We always appreciate Sallisaw.”

Other agencies receiving grants include Tulsa Transit, which will receive $3,175,604 in funding to replace buses, rehabilitate a parking and paratransit call center building and introduce modern technology to support it Route 66 (11th Street) bus rapid transit line. The projects will help build the regional transit network and elevate Tulsa as a hub for business, culture and entertainment.

In addition, the OSU/Stillwater Community Transit System will receive $9,120,000 to expand and upgrade its 50-year-old maintenance facility. The new facility will give OSU the ability to maintain buses rather than outsourcing, providing cost savings and enhancing service for the Oklahoma State University community.

Laura Brown, KXMX Staff Writer

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