This bill amends the existing Mobility and Transportation Innovation Pilot Program to broaden its scope, allowing grants to be awarded to local government units and transit agencies for public transportation projects throughout New Jersey, rather than being limited to Mercer County. The bill introduces new definitions, including "innovative technology," which encompasses advanced transit technologies aimed at enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of the transportation system. Additionally, it establishes new criteria for the Commissioner of Transportation to consider when approving grant applications, focusing on factors such as improving transit performance, removing mobility barriers, and enhancing environmental sustainability.

To qualify for a grant, transportation projects must now ensure access for individuals without smartphone technology or credit cards and include features like wheelchair-accessible vehicles and accessible mobile applications for persons with disabilities. The bill also appropriates $20 million from the General Fund to support the program, supplementing the initial $2 million allocated when the program was first established. This funding aims to enhance public transportation services and promote innovative solutions to improve mobility across the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 27:1D-10, 27:1D-11