On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is proud to celebrate Rural Transit Day! In 1979, rural transit was established by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), and Rural Transit Day was created in 2019 to recognize the vital role of rural transit agencies and the people who operate it. Rural residents depend on these services for much needed trips to healthcare, work, education, shopping and other necessary life connections. Visitors also use rural transit to access national trails and parks such as the Pacific Crest Trail, Yosemite and Sequoia National Park, Mammoth Lakes, Redwood National and State Parks and many other tourist attractions.
The FTA 5311 Rural Transit Formula Program administered by the Division of Local Assistance provides operating funds for over 85 rural transit agencies in the State of California. Please join Caltrans on Rural Transit Day in recognizing the importance of rural transit in our communities and honoring the transit agency heroes who make this possible.
For any questions, please contact Suresh Ratnam, Regional Transit Coordinator.