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The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced April 5 that national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges in 20 states will receive $24.8 million in federal funding through the Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program to implement public transportation within the facilities.

“As Franklin Roosevelt said, ‘There is nothing so American as our national parks,’” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “The national parks are American treasures, and Transit in Parks funding will make these national treasures more accessible and enjoyable to everyone.”

The National Park Service, Forest Service, and Fish and Wildlife Service will receive funds for 46 projects ranging from new diesel buses at Yosemite National Park in California to ferry improvements at Gulf Island National Seashore in Florida, and from visitor shuttle buses in Mount Rainier National Park to bus stop improvements in Acadia National Park in Maine.

“The transportation improvements to our national parks and wildlife refuges will help preserve and protect our cultural and natural resources while ensuring all Americans have access to America’s great outdoors,” said Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar.

“By reducing traffic, Transit in Parks will help preserve the splendor of the national parks experience and protect our country’s natural resources,” added FTA Administrator Peter Rogoff. “The program also improves visitor mobility and ensures access to all, including persons with disabilities.”

The complete list of recipients is available online.

Congress established the Paul S. Sarbanes Transit in Parks Program to enhance the protection of national parks and federal lands and increase the enjoyment of those visiting them. Administered by the FTA in partnership with the Department of the Interior and the Forest Service, the program funds capital and planning expenses for alternative transportation systems, such as shuttle buses and bicycle trails in national parks and public lands. The goals of the program are to conserve natural, historical, and cultural resources and reduce congestion and pollution.

The photo shows a scene of Yosemite National Park.

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