The Kansas Department of Transportation awarded more than $7.4 million to 33 transit projects across the state on March 10 as part of the agency’s new Access, Innovation, and Collaboration program.

[Above photo by Kansas DOT.]

“Transportation is the supporting fiber of our lives – and too often – we assume that always means driving a car,” noted Maggie Doll, Kansas DOT’s deputy secretary, in a statement.

“But thousands of Kansans do not have access to a car, are unable to drive or would prefer not to,” she said. “That’s why I’m pleased that our new transportation program – FORWARD – retains the annual funding commitments to all modes of transportation including transit, bicycle and pedestrian paths, aviation and rail.”

More than 10 million urban and rural transit rides are provided annually across the state, the agency added, noting that its Access, Innovation, and Collaboration program aims to keep improving transit access and services for Kansas residents.

In separate news, Julie Lorenz – secretary of the Kansas DOT – has been elected vice president of the Mid-America Association of State Transportation Officials for 2020-2021.

“Secretary Lorenz is an experienced leader who understands how the transportation systems of Midwest states work together,” MAASTO President Craig Thompson, secretary-designate of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, said in a statement. “She will do a great job of helping MAASTO members combine their perspectives and expertise to help address our shared transportation challenges.”