Federal Grant Helps Provide Transportation For Upper Cumberland Residents

March 12, 2007, COOKEVILLE – A portion of a $2 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant will help Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency provide transportation for residents who need it, U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon announced today.

“The Bus and Bus-Related Facilities program provides funding for new and replacement buses and related equipment and facilities,” Gordon said. “Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency will use the funds to replace 12 vans.”

UCHRA’s Transportation Program provides more than 193,643 trips for 14,532 individuals in their service area, using an average of 72 vehicles a day and traveling 2.6 million miles per year, according to Transportation Director Rebecca Harris. “Therefore, it is necessary to replace vehicles with more than 175,000 miles to continue this much needed service in the Upper Cumberland region.”

Harris and UCHRA Executive Director Phyllis Bennett expressed their appreciation to the state’s congressional delegation for its support and efforts on behalf of the Upper Cumberland Area Rural Transit System Program. UCARTS provides public transportation to rural residents of all ages, giving first priority to the elderly, disabled and economically disadvantaged with medical needs.

“The agency’s board of directors wish to express their appreciation to Congressman Bart Gordon for his continued dedication to providing funding to enable residents to move from dependence to independence,” Bennett said.

UCHRA serves 14 Upper Cumberland counties, including Cannon, Clay, DeKalb, Jackson, Macon, Overton, Putnam and Smith counties.