The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is pleased to announce that $7 million is available through the Rides to Community Immunity (RCI) program to all 88 counties in Ohio to assist Ohio’s most vulnerable populations with transportation to vaccine locations.  For the 70 counties that have a public transit system, ODOT will award the funds directly to the public transit agency.  For the 18 counties that don’t have public transit, ODOT will award those funds to the county health department to be used for transportation services.   

All public transit recipients are to work with their local county health departments and local EMAs to identify the best way to use these funds.  ODOT recommends efforts to leverage existing investments, such as offering vouchers for transit passes, or using these funds in conjunction with other transportation resources to help cover any additional cost that may be associated with the unusual circumstances that surround vaccine transportation.  These funds are available at 100% state not requiring any type of local match.  These funds are available for operating expenses or purchased transportation service only and will not be available for any capital items. 

Please find attached the Rides to Community Immunity (RCI) allocations which are formula-based on county populations.

Rides to Community Immunity Program Webinar

This webinar on utilizing and expending RCI funds was held on March 19, 2021. Viewing is not required to receive the RCI funds, but is encouraged to help understanding of the program. 

Additionally, please view these Handouts from this event:

Webinar Presentation

Public Transit Systems in Ohio Map with Contacts