Reps. James Gallagher and Josh Riley Improve Transit Access in Rural Communities through Bipartisan Bill

September 25, 2026
Press Release
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representatives Josh Riley (NY-19) and James Gallagher (CA-01) introduced the Improving Rural Transportation Act, bipartisan legislation that would establish a federal grant program to support rural transportation infrastructure. The bill would also help rural communities develop and expand ride-share and micro-transit programs, with an emphasis on public-private partnerships. The initiative will give rural communities additional tools and resources to address transportation needs and improve access to mobility options from Northern California to New York.
 
“Rural communities deserve transportation options that actually work for them, not one-size-fits-all solutions designed for big cities,” said Rep. Gallagher. “The Improving Rural Transportation Act gives smaller communities more flexibility to develop transportation services that fit their needs while bringing the private sector to the table. I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort with Congressman Riley and give rural America a better shot at the transportation investments it deserves.”
 
“In Upstate New York, getting to the doctor, the grocery store, or the post office can mean driving 20 or 30 miles. If you don’t have a car or can’t drive, that becomes a real problem real fast,” said Rep. Riley. “Small towns should have the tools to come up with solutions that work for them. This bill gives rural communities more options, brings local leaders and businesses to the table, and helps make sure folks can get where they need to go.”
 
The Improving Rural Transportation Act would do the following:
  • Create a Department of Transportation grant program for communities with populations under 200,000.
  • Help fund rideshare, microtransit, flexible-route, and other transportation programs.
  • Give priority to projects that bring together local governments, private-sector partners, and nonprofit organizations.
  • Require state or local partners to cover at least 20 percent of project costs.
 
You can read the full text of the Improving Rural Transportation Act HERE.
 
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Rep. James Gallagher | 408 Cannon House Office Building | Washington, DC 20515 US
 
Congressman James Gallagher proudly represents California's First Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.