Section 5310
Section 5310 Program Overview
The Section 5310 program supports capital and operating projects that are designed to meet the special transportation needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities. Funding may be used to purchase accessible vehicles, support mobility management programs, and provide services that go beyond the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
MACOG coordinates the local 5310 program, working with eligible agencies and organizations to ensure transportation needs are met and services are equitably distributed throughout the region.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible Applicants
Applicants must be one of the following:
Private non-profit organizations
State or local governmental authorities approved to coordinate services for seniors and individuals with disabilities
Public transportation operators
Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to manage federal funds and implement transportation services that align with the goals of the 5310 programs.
Eligible Activities
Section 5310 funds can support:
Capital projects: Purchase of accessible vehicles, mobility management, equipment for transportation coordination, and vehicle-related infrastructure.
Operating projects: Assistance for transportation services beyond ADA requirements, volunteer driver programs, and travel training.
Service Area
Eligible projects must serve the South Bend Urbanized Area or areas coordinated with INDOT for rural and small urban 5310 projects. Projects should directly benefit seniors and individuals with disabilities within the identified service area.
Section 5310 Program
South Bend Urbanized Area Application
To apply for 5310 funding, applicants must complete the 5310 Application Form using the link provided below. The form requires detailed project descriptions, budget information, documentation of coordination efforts with other transportation providers, and details of the vehicle(s) being requested.
Please also complete the attached certifications and upload them within the application form before submitting.
Project Selection and Evaluation
Applications are reviewed and scored by the MACOG committee using evaluation criteria such as:
Demonstrated need for services
Cost-effectiveness
Coordination with other agencies
Organizational capacity and compliance
Selected projects are recommended for funding and included in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).
Project Management Plan
All recipients are required to follow MACOG’s 5310 Project Management Plan (PMP), which outlines roles and responsibilities for program administration, procurement procedures, financial management, and compliance with federal requirements. The PMP ensures accountability and transparency throughout the project lifecycle.
For information on current and past awardees of the MACOG 5310 Program, explore the story map.