Photo courtesy of HIRTA

The Heart of Iowa Regional Transit Agency (HIRTA) recently received a grant which will help make its communities more livable. 

The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) announced that HIRTA is a recipient of the 2022 Community Challenge Grant which is a nationwide program that distributed $3.4 million to 260 projects throughout the nation. 

HIRTA will be installing Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant and bilingual benches and signage at various stops in Perry. Also, a deviated flex bus route will also be offered in addition to the current service allowing people to get a ride to several areas which will improve access to amenities including healthcare and employment among other opportunities. 

There will also be fare-free rides given to healthcare and other essential services for those who qualify for transportation assistance. The projects are to be completed by November of this year. 

For more information on the Community Challenge Grant you can go here.