The Community Transportation Assistance Program (CTAP) provides support for cost effective and sustainable community-based inclusive transportation services in low population density communities in Nova Scotia.

Community-based inclusive transportation is defined as: services that respond to the unmet needs of all persons who have a transportation disadvantage. Priority groups include: persons with disabilities, seniors and the disadvantaged. Priorities and needs are determined by the community. Services are developed and provided by non-profit organizations through partnerships by coordinating public, private, non-profit, and volunteer resources and services.

Please download the application to your computer and fill it out. Once the application is completed, an electronic version must be provided to dimockgm@gov.ns.ca. Please see the check list on page 1 of the application for required information.

Applications will be considered annually for funding April 1st and ending March 31st, subject to funding availability.

Eligibility

• funding is available to municipalities and non-profit community-based organizations (incorporated groups) involved in the delivery of inclusive transportation services in low-population density areas of the Province
  
• the grant will only apply to a service in a county or region with a population density at or below 0.35 persons per square kilometer
  
• service must be in compliance with the Motor Carrier Act and Regulations (including insurance and inspection criteria)
  
• Board of Directors and volunteers must have proof of liability insurance coverage
  
• grants are intended for operating cost and are not to be used for capital leasing or debt service expenses
  
• priority will be given to organizations with anticipated growth to a minimum service level of 0.2 rides/capita/annum
  
• priority will be given to communities with no or limited existing services
  
• notwithstanding licensing and capacity limitations, priority will be given to services with accessible and inclusive transportation services, as demonstrated in the application and business plan
  

Funding

The Community Transportation Assistance Program (CTAP) provides financial support to cover a portion of the operating costs of a community-based transportation service.

The Province will provide grants at a pre-determined rate based on population in a service area to eligible organizations subject to funding availability.

CTAP also provides for ‘one time’ research grants-based on budget availability, to organizations interested in developing new services in regions to undertake start-up work, including: needs assessments, business and financial planning, and organizational development.

Applicants eligible for CTAP may apply for capital funding under the Accessible Transportation Assistance Program (ATAP), which provides funding for the purchase of accessible vehicles or the modification of an existing vehicle.

Cash Flow of Grant Payments

The grant payment will be paid out based on current departmental policy.

Application, Review, and Response Process

The Inclusive Transportation Advisory Committee will conduct reviews and assessments of applications. This committee is made up of representatives from government departments who have a vested interest in transportation in Nova Scotia. Applicants will be notified at the earliest possible opportunity when the review is complete. Reviews and awarding of grants cannot be completed until all required information is provided. Grants will be conditional upon the applicants entering into a contractual agreement with the Province containing service performance requirements and reporting.

Community Transportation Assistance Program Application

Resources for an original application to start a CTAP Service

CTAP Coordinator
Service Nova Scotia & Municipal Relations
Telephone: (902) 424-5965
Fax: (902) 424-0821
E-mail: dimockgm@gov.ns.ca

Natalie Aisthorpe
Director
Transportation & Infrastructure Renewal (Motor Carrier Division)
Telephone: (902) 424-3588
Fax: (902) 424-1046
E-mail: aisthonl@gov.ns.ca

Claredon Robicheau
Manager
Le Transport de Clare
Telephone: (902) 769-2474
E-mail: clardeon@eastlink.ca