H.R. 7298: Connecting Communities Through Transit Planning Act of 2026

The bill titled the Connecting Communities Through Transit Planning Act of 2026 aims to amend the Federal Public Transportation Act of 2012 by establishing a grant program focused on transit-oriented development planning. Below are the key points of what the bill will do:

Grant Program Establishment

The bill proposes to replace the existing pilot program with a formal grant program for transit-oriented development planning. This shift emphasizes the importance of integrated community and transit planning, allocating federal funds more systematically to support local efforts.

Project Eligibility

Under the amended law, eligible projects for funding will include:

• New Fixed Guideway Projects: These could be new systems or major improvements in existing transit lines.
• Fixed Guideway Bus Rapid Transit Projects: This involves projects that enhance bus transit by providing dedicated lanes or other improvements that allow for faster service.
• Corridor-Based Capital Investments: Improvements made to existing fixed guideway systems will also qualify for funding.

Expanded Definition of Predevelopment Activities

The bill will broaden the definition of predevelopment activities to include:

• Planning and site evaluation
• Engineering and architectural design
• Community engagement efforts
• Feasibility studies
• Utility coordination
• Accessibility assessments
• Other necessary preparations for development near transit stations

Accessibility Improvements

The legislation emphasizes improving access to transit stations for all users. This includes:

• Individuals with disabilities
• Seniors
• Veterans
• Other transit-dependent populations

The bill suggests integrating paratransit services and bicycle infrastructure to facilitate easier access to transit-oriented sites.

Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes additional funding specifically for this grant program, allowing for:

• $75,000,000 per year from 2027 through 2031 to support the initiative, in addition to existing funding mechanisms.

Transferring Sections

The bill proposes to reposition the relevant section of the existing law to a new location in the United States Code. This technical change is part of reorganization efforts for clarity and legislative efficiency.

Relevant Companies

• GOOGL (Alphabet Inc.): As a significant player in transportation technology and navigation, changes in transit planning may affect its interests in smart city solutions.
• TSLA (Tesla, Inc.): Improvements in transit planning may impact the deployment of electric vehicle infrastructure, especially if transit-oriented developments expand.
• UAL (United Airlines Holdings, Inc.): While primarily an airline, partnerships and integration with ground transit systems could be influenced by the new grant program.