Transit Manager's Toolkit

Welcome to the Tribal Transit Section of the Transit Manager’s Toolkit

This section of the Transit Manager’s Toolkit discusses the issues and complexities that come with managing or engaging with a Tribal transit agency and the unique transit needs of Tribal communities. While there are many similarities between Tribal and non-Tribal transit systems, what a Tribal transit manager needs to know on the very first day of the job may be a little different than what a non-Tribal transit manager needs to know. This section of the Toolkit was developed to give new Tribal transit managers the information they will need on day one to ensure their transit organizations are operating efficiently, effectively, and in compliance with federal regulations associated with receiving funding through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).

While the day-to-day operation of a Tribal transit agency can be a challenge, it is possible to operate a system that is both efficient and effective when leadership has the right tools. This section of the Toolkit includes information and guidance to ensure that Tribal transit managers are aware of available resources to successfully provide rides for Tribal citizens.

Recognition of Tribal transit’s complexity is becoming more evident in the policies and processes of federal and state agencies. The subsections that follow highlight recent enhancements to existing Tribal transit programs with a special emphasis on federal and state funding requirements and opportunities. Examples and case studies are included in each subsection to provide additional guidance and to enhance the reader’s understanding of the possibilities of transit in Tribal communities. Instances where there is clear overlap between Tribal and non-Tribal transit funding sources and requirements are documented.

In addition to information and guidance for Tribal transit managers, the Toolkit also includes a Tribal and Non-Tribal Systems Engaging subsection that is meant to guide collaborative efforts to improve transit access for all.

This section of the Toolkit is organized into the following subsections: