The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) has announced a public comment period for proposed program changes to the Making Efficient and Responsible Investments in Transit (MERIT) operating and capital assistance, which is open through November 21, 2025.
The proposed changes can be viewed here: MERIT Operating and Capital Assistance Proposed Program Changes
All comments can be sent to drptpr@drpt.virginia.gov or 600 East Main Street, Suite 2102, Richmond, VA 23219.
The MERIT Program provides funding for operating expenses for eligible public transportation services by using a performance-based methodology to determine the specific allocation of operating assistance funds to each transit agency. MERIT is currently undergoing its Code required evaluation by DRPT with input from the Transit Service Delivery Advisory Committee (TSDAC). TSDAC consists of transit leaders, local government leaders, and a member of the Commonwealth Transportation Board and advises DRPT in the development and review of the MERIT program. DRPT is aiming to present final recommendations to the Commonwealth Transportation Board in December 2025 with adoption of changes in January 2026. If adopted, these changes would not be implemented until FY 2028.