Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 732 - DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION DIVISION
Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Chapter 732 is dedicated to the Department of Transportation, Public Transportation Division. This chapter sets forth the rules and procedures governing public transportation services and funding within the state of Oregon.
The Public Transportation Division of the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) plays a crucial role in developing and supporting a comprehensive and efficient public transportation system across Oregon. Their responsibilities, as reflected in OAR Chapter 732, include:
Administration of the Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund (STIF): A significant portion of Chapter 732 (Divisions 40, 42, and 44) focuses on the STIF. This fund is continuously appropriated to finance investments and improvements in public transportation services throughout Oregon. The rules detail:
General information about the STIF.
Procedures and requirements for the distribution of STIF formula funds to "Qualified Entities" (such as counties, mass transit districts, or transportation districts).
The competitive grant process for STIF discretionary funds.
Definitions related to the STIF, including "Public Transportation Services," "Local Plan," and "Qualified Entity."
Special Transportation Funds: The chapter also includes rules for other special transportation funds, such as:
Special Transportation Fund for the Elderly and Handicapped (Division 5): Outlines programs and funding specifically for transportation services for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Special Transportation Operating Program (Division 30): Addresses the distribution and application procedures for operational funds.
Oregon Streetcar Project Fund Program (Division 35): Sets standards for project eligibility and application procedures for grants related to streetcar projects.
Planning and Coordination: The rules emphasize the importance of local and regional public transportation planning, including the development of "Local Plans" and the coordination of services to improve efficiency and reduce service gaps.
Compliance and Oversight: The Public Transportation Division is responsible for managing STIF funds and grants, conducting program oversight, and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, including those related to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Civil Rights (Title VI).
In essence, OAR Chapter 732 provides the regulatory framework for how the Oregon Department of Transportation's Public Transportation Division manages, funds, and oversees public transportation initiatives, aiming to create a robust and accessible transportation network for all Oregonians.
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