The Chatham Area Transit Authority has been awarded a $1.98 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC) program. The goal of the JARC program is to improve access to employment and employment related activities for welfare recipients and eligible low-income individuals, and to transport residents of urbanized areas and nonurbanized areas to suburban employment opportunities.

"Folks in our area often travel long distances to get to their jobs," said John Barrow (GA-12). "This money will go a long way to making those trips more affordable, and more enjoyable for everyone."

"I'd like to take the opportunity to thank both of Chatham County's Congressmen, Representative Jack Kingston and Representative John Barrow for their help in obtaining this grant," said Pete Liakakis, Chairman of the Chatham Area Transit Authority. "This money will go a long way in helping to enhance our public transportation system which will benefit the citizens of Chatham County."

The Federal Transit Administration provides financial assistance for transportation services planned, designed, and carried out to meet the transportation needs of eligible low-income individuals and reverse commuters. The program requires coordination of federally assisted programs and services in order to make the most efficient use of Federal resources.