MTA
Tri County Council for Western Maryland, Inc serves as a Regional Coordinating Body for the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA).
We represent Western Maryland which includes Garrett, Allegany, and Washington Counties as well as parts of rural Frederick County and we have the responsibility under the provisions of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) for developing and carrying out a continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive transportation process for the region.
With funding from the Federal Transit Administration, the MTA will disburse these funds to successful applicants who qualify for these programs:
Locally Operated Transit System (LOTS) - 5310 Program Manual
Senior Rides Program
Projects funded through these programs must be derived from coordinated public transit-human services transportation plans for the respective region. More information on regional coordinated plans is available at:
The development of the Western Maryland Coordinated Transportation Plan has provided a framework for future regional coordinated activities and has resulted in a new partnership between the MTA and Tri County Council for Western Maryland. We will provide technical assistance to applicants applying for transportation related grants and we are responsible for determining that projects requesting funds are consistent with the regionally adopted long-range transportation plan.
Furthermore, the Council coordinates the local review committee to review, score, and forward the 5310 applications to MTA for consideration.
The Council will provide information on the region’s unmet transportation needs and issues as well as aid in the coordination of services among the region’s providers.
Some examples include limited transportation options for those who live outside the fixed-route service areas, long distance medical transportation, limited options for dialysis trips, limited options for 2nd and 3rd shift jobs, access to paratransit vehicles that can operate over difficult terrain, marketing of services, and educating clients and advocates on how to use transportation services.
Other duties include attendance of quarterly meetings in Hanover, MD, assistance with the logistics for regional meetings, participation in regional meetings, and coordination and attendance of the annual Transportation Association of Maryland (TAM) conference.
In addition, we also participate in the Allegany County Transportation Advisory Committee meetings and the Washington County Transportation Advisory Committee meetings.
“Securing a loan through Tri County Council gave me the chance to make a transformative investment in my business: the purchase of a RAM press. This piece of equipment, far beyond what I could have afforded on my own, is opening the door for me to produce handmade dinnerware at a sustainable scale. Because of Tri County Council’s lender‐friendly terms and the scale of funding available, I was able to take my original dream of creating unique, durable pottery and expand it into a bigger vision than I had even imagined.
Beyond the funding itself, working with Chris and her team was an exceptional experience. From answering my many questions to even visiting my studio in person, they made the process clear, smooth, and personal. I didn’t just receive a loan—I felt the genuine support of people who are invested in my success and goals. That combination of resources and encouragement is what’s making this dream possible.”
