Tompkins County transportation planning staff reported a substantial increase in anticipated federal funding for 2026 to support mobility management, coordinated transit, first‑mile/last‑mile pilot projects and rides‑to‑recovery programs.

Frank Doldo, speaking for the transportation planning department, said the federal funding line would rise substantially, and described planned initiatives including a coordinated plan, a one‑call/one‑click mobility center and grants for first‑mile/last‑mile services and rides‑to‑recovery. "Our 3 FTEs we reimburse $25,000,000 a year most of that going to TCAT... Our local share is $49,045 and the reason for that is 80% of the transportation planning budget is received by the FTA," he said. (Frank Doldo, transportation planning)

Doldo told legislators he anticipates receiving $125,000 from the state for first‑mile/last‑mile and rides‑to‑recovery programs but had not yet received award notices. He said the department will seek matching funds from other sources and does not expect to ask the legislature for local money for those matches.

Why it matters: The transportation planning budget includes both capital and operating grants and is heavily reliant on federal and state reimbursements. New mobility programs — including a coordinated plan and client transportation enhancements — could expand services for residents while relying on grant timing and matching requirements.

Questions and follow‑up: Legislators asked about travel and training line items and why travel/training appeared large; Doldo said some travel expenses are reimbursed by state tap funds and that some training is necessary for staff newly handling state and federal compliance and program administration. The committee asked for continued documentation showing awarded grants and any required local matches.

Ending: Transportation planning staff will return with award notices when received and will seek non‑legislative matches where possible to avoid additional local requests.