Connecting Communities Through Transit Planning Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Simon, Lateefah [D-CA-12]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jan 31, 2026
Bottom line
The bill expands the scope and funding of a federal grant program to support planning and predevelopment for a wider range of transit-oriented development projects, with an emphasis on accessibility and community engagement.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Federal Public Transportation Act of 2012 to expand the eligibility and scope of the transit-oriented development (TOD) planning grant program. It renames the program from a 'pilot' to a 'grant program,' broadens the definition of eligible projects to include bus rapid transit and existing fixed guideway system improvements, and expands the types of predevelopment activities that can receive funding. Additionally, it authorizes $75,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2027 through 2031 for the program.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that expanding eligibility and providing dedicated funding for TOD planning and predevelopment activities will facilitate more efficient and equitable development around transit hubs. They contend this will promote economic growth, housing affordability, and improved access for diverse populations, including those with disabilities and seniors, by supporting modern transit solutions like bus rapid transit.
Opponents contend
Potential critics might argue that expanding the program's scope without strict oversight could lead to inefficient use of federal funds or that local planning should primarily remain a state and local responsibility. Others may raise concerns about the overall increase in authorized federal spending, particularly if not offset by cuts elsewhere.
The bill is very concise, allowing for a quick and thorough understanding of its provisions.
Section 2(a)(1)
Expansion of Eligible Projects for TOD Planning Grants
This provision renames the 'Pilot Program' to 'Grant Program' and broadens the definition of an 'eligible project' for the transit-oriented development planning grants. Previously limited to new fixed guideway capital projects or core capacity improvement projects, it now includes fixed guideway bus rapid transit projects and corridor-based capital investments in existing fixed guideway systems. This means more types of transit projects can qualify for federal planning support.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that including bus rapid transit and existing system improvements reflects modern transit needs and allows for more flexible and impactful TOD planning, especially in areas where new fixed guideway projects are not feasible or necessary.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against this provision, as it generally allows for more options. However, some might argue that it could dilute the focus of the original program.
Tradeoffs
The tradeoff is between maintaining a narrow focus on specific types of major new infrastructure and allowing broader application to a wider range of transit improvements, potentially spreading resources more thinly but also increasing overall impact.
Section 2(a)(2)
Broadening Scope of Predevelopment Activities
This provision expands the definition of 'predevelopment activities' that can be funded by the grant program. It now explicitly includes planning, site evaluation, engineering and architectural design, community engagement, feasibility studies, utility coordination, and accessibility assessments. This ensures that a wider range of preparatory work essential for successful TOD can receive federal support.
Section 2(a)(3)
New Grant Purposes for Predevelopment and Accessibility
This section amends the purposes for which grants can be used, explicitly adding support for 'predevelopment activities' and improving access to transit and TOD sites for all users. This includes specific mention of individuals with disabilities, seniors, veterans, and other transit-dependent populations, emphasizing paratransit connectivity and bicycle infrastructure.
Section 2(a)(5)
Dedicated Funding for the Grant Program
This provision authorizes the appropriation of $75,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2031 to carry out the transit-oriented development planning grant program. This funding is in addition to any amounts appropriated under section 5338 of title 49, United States Code.
This subsection transfers the entire transit-oriented development planning grant program (Section 20005(b) of the Federal Public Transportation Act of 2012) to appear as subsection (s) of section 5303 of title 49, United States Code.
Section 2(b)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice for codification, moving a program from a 'note' section of a previous act into the main body of the U.S. Code where it logically belongs.
Case for: Supporters would argue this improves the organization and clarity of federal transportation law, making it easier for practitioners to find and understand the program's statutory basis.
Case against: No specific case against, as it's a technical, organizational change.
Estimated impact: Neutral fiscal impact; primarily administrative and organizational.