Transportation to Jobs Program Funds Overlook Waukesha County

Governor Scott Walker recently approved grants totaling $3,676,667 for projects that will help to connect low income workers with jobs through enhanced local transit services. The Wisconsin Employment Transportation Assistance Program (WETAP) combines federal, state and local funds to assist transportation-provider groups in all parts of the state.

However, of the 27 applications reviewed and scored on set criteria by the program's committee, an application from Waukesha-Ozaukee-Workforce Development Board that served the County of Waukesha (primarily the urban area), was one of only five that were turned away. The project gave out vehicle loans at 0 percent interest to low-income individuals to enable the participants to get to work, according to Sarah Probosco, program manager for WETAP.

In addition, another applicant, Community Action Coalition of South Central Wisconsin, which served the rural parts of Waukesha County and provided vehicle loans.

"Both applications scored too low to get funding, however, Community Action Coalition will continue to provide loans in 2012 with the funds established in their revolving loan fund," Probosco said. "Demonstration of need is one element of the evaluation criteria. We also evaluate coordination, performance and efficiency, and the applying agency’s capacity."

Funds were awarded to the highest scored projects until the available funds were depleted. This year there were 27 applications and 22 were awarded.

Enhanced transit services made possible through WETAP include additional bus routes, vanpool and shuttle services, vehicle loan and vehicle repair programs, and the hiring of local mobility managers who coordinate transportation services for area workers and employers.

“WETAP’S ‘Transportation to Jobs’ program helps Wisconsinites get back on their feet by helping them get to work,” said Governor Walker. “These grants will enable local communities to provide essential transportation services to their local workforce.”

Milwaukee Careers Cooperative, which provides shuttle services within a 45 mile radius of the city, did receive $425,389. It brings workers into the county who otherwise would not be able to drive to places of employment.

WETAP integrates local, state, and federal funding sources into a single, coordinated program and award process administered the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. WETAP combines funds from the federal Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC) program, along with the state Transportation Employment and Mobility (TEAM). For calendar year 2012, the federal and state investment totals more than $3.6 million, with the local funding share totaling more than $2.7 million.