YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) has been awarded over $602,000 in grant funding from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT).

According to a press release, this funding is part of $23.1 million from ODOT's Urban Transit Program awarded to 26 different urban transit agencies for things like transit fleet expansion, the replacement of vehicles, preventative maintenance, facility upgrades, new equipment and technology and operating assistance.

"Part of ODOT's mission is to ensure Ohio's transportation system is accessible, equitable and positioned for the future. These funds not only go directly to support that mission, but more importantly to boost the vital service urban transit agencies provide to connect people and improve their quality of life," said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn.

In total, WRTA was awarded $602,901 in Urban Transit Program funds.

WRTA Executive Director Dean Harris tells 21 News these funds will be used to match other federal grant funds. However, Harris says he has not decided which project to use these funds on yet.