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HomeMy WebLinkAbout120525 - The WSTA WeeklyALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them. Summary Now Avaialble, 1 week left, TNLI Emerging 2026Leadership Symposium, 2026 Calendar, Federal Updates, and Tarnsit Jobs Vol. 10, Issue 33 December 05, 2025 View this email in your browser <https://mailchi.mp/1fbce4fb305c/the-wsta-weekly-17992716?e=7ccb4f03e2> <https://mcusercontent.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/547fd40c-aaff-400e-270e-fce1bef58fce.png> Annual Public Transportation Summary - 2024 Now Available This annual report showcases your work by translating your achievements into compelling data for the public and the Legislature. Down to the detail, this report is a snapshot of operational, ridership, and financial data from local and regional public transportation providers in Washington state. <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=7042fe1f7b&e=7ccb4f03e2> 1 Week Left to Apply Deadline December 12 2026 Applications Now Open <https://mcusercontent.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/fe3813e0-182a-647e-cce6-3c7ebae8a2e8.png> Applications for the 2026 TNLI Emerging Program are now open. Be sure to prepare all your application materials before submitting, and double-check the in-person events, as those are mandatory and can not be made up in any other way. <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=5fd74e8d99&e=7ccb4f03e2> <https://mcusercontent.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/e2339b26-b1d6-421d-b365-4ea027ec26ba.png> <https://mcusercontent.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/92c7b85f-59ef-784f-7669-38170c8ec978.png> Appropriators Try to Chart Path for Next Minibus Although most operations of the federal government are temporarily funded by the Continuing Resolution (CR) through January 31, 2026, lawmakers are working to reach agreement on as many of the remaining Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 annual spending bills as soon as possible. There was a greater sense of optimism about the rest of the appropriations process before the Thanksgiving recess. Now, some leaders are expressing doubt about the ability to advance any additional minibus packages before the House and Senate adjourn for the December recess. Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that Republican appropriators are trying to garner support to package several appropriations bills with the Defense bill (S. 2572 <https://watransit.us12.list -manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=3c7a7e13b1&e=7ccb4f03e2> / H.R. 4106 <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=572e2ee663&e=7ccb4f03e2 > ) as the basis to form a minibus. The potential package could include some combination of the following measures: Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS, S. 2354 <https://watransit.u s12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=fd5cef4d30&e=7ccb4f03e2> ); Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies (Interior–Environment, S. 2431 <https://watransit.us12.list-mana ge.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=aa8d666839&e=7ccb4f03e2> ); Labor, Health and Human Services, and Related Agencies (LHHS, S. 2587 <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click ?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=0a4132fcf6&e=7ccb4f03e2> ), and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (T-HUD, S. 2465 <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click ?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=ab1da45234&e=7ccb4f03e2> ). Leader Thune offered a motion to proceed to the Defense bill earlier this week, but the vote has not yet been scheduled as negotiations with holdouts continue. Earlier this week, the Senate Majority Leader expressed skepticism about passing the next package before the December recess, citing competing priorities. Lawmakers must prioritize action on legislation with year-end deadlines like the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (NDAA) and the expiration of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits. The Senate is also working to address a backlog of pending confirmations for President Donald J. Trump’s nominees. On Tuesday, House Appropriations Committee Chair Tom Cole shared that he has reached an agreement with his Senate counterparts on top-lines for five spending bills: CJS; Financial Services and General Government; Homeland Security; Interior-Environment; National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs; and T-HUD. That positive development suggests some forward movement may still be possible ahead of the holidays, though we caution that there are likely more disagreements to come in working toward a bipartisan, bicameral agreement. Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary * On Monday, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) released a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=88a1030953& e=7ccb4f03e2> for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program. The agency expects to award $1.5 billion in funding authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58) to support regionally or locally significant projects that enhance surface transportation infrastructure. DOT will accept applications for Planning Grants and Capital Grants of up to $25 million. The minimum capital grant award size is $1 million in rural areas and $5 million in urban areas. Planning projects do not have a floor. It will set aside $750 million for projects in urban areas and $750 million for projects in rural areas. The application deadline is February 24, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). Please see our grant memorandum <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=ca3891f92e&e=7ccb4f03e2> for more information and let us know if you have any interest in this opportunity. We ask that you share any interest in applying with us as soon as possible so that we may offer assistance to your team throughout the application process. * The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Infrastructure (ARPA-I) announced <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=6f008a5bd7&e=7ccb4f03e2> the 15 semi-finalist teams selected through its Ideas and Innovation Challenge to develop innovative transportation projects. The semi-finalists will receive $15,000 each and present their concepts to business and government stakeholders next week at agency headquarters. They will then be invited to submit proposals to advance to the Challenge Finals next year. Federal Transit Administration * The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) issued <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=066899e87c&e=7ccb4f03e2> a Safety Advisory (SA-25-1) <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=b8dd427fa8&e=7ccb4f03e2> recommending that State Safety Oversight Agencies (SSOAs) direct Rail Transit Agencies (RTAs) in their jurisdiction to conduct safety risk assessments and identity strategies to reduce rail trespassing and suicide events. The agency noted that these events have steadily increased and accounted for half of all fatalities reported to the National Transit Database (NTD) in Calendar Year (CY) 2024. FTA will host a webinar <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.co m/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=485f2d1e08&e=7ccb4f03e2> to outline the latest Advisory and additional resources <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2e f2a8361&id=3cb492b9b1&e=7ccb4f03e2> for transit agencies on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). * FTA developed a new worksheet <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=63d552ae0d&e=7ccb4f03e2> to assist project sponsors in providing the agency with sufficient documentation to make categorical exclusions (CE) determinations for certain construction projects under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other environmental requirements. The worksheet includes guidance and references that project sponsors are expected to use in their applications. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration * The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) removed <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=2180dd34a7&e=7ccb4f03e2> approximately 3,000 of 16,000 commercial driver’s license (CDL) training providers from its Training Provider Registry (TPR) and placed an additional 4,500 providers on notice. The agency stated that the removed providers either falsified or manipulated training data, neglected to meet required standards, failed to maintain accurate documentation, or refused to provide records during federal audits or investigations. FMCSA also threatened <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=e2f07b2b20&e=7ccb4f03e2> to withhold up to $30.4 million in federal funding to Minnesota after finding that “one third of Minnesota’s non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) reviewed by Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) were issued illegally.” * FMCSA updated <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=b042172f83&e=7ccb4f03e2> its vetting process to register and re-register Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) used by truckers in an effort to address issues of non-compliance. The agency argued that the action would “strengthen road safety for American families while cutting costs for truck drivers and carriers.” <https://maassets.higherlogic.com/image/APTA/Executive_Action_Update_650x200_Final_3009955.png> Impacts of Executive Actions on Public Transportation: Since January 20, President Trump has issued almost 100 Executive Orders, Memoranda, and Proclamations to carry out his Administration’s policy goals and agenda. Many of these directives, together with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) actions, directly impact the public transportation industry. These Executive Orders and other directives pause some transportation funding; terminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs; impose new tariffs; and establish priorities for DOT competitive grants. APTA’s Executive and Regulatory Actions Tracker <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=71a6501e16&e=7ccb4f03e2> provides real-time updates and summaries regarding the President’s Executive Orders and other Administration actions that impact the public transportation industry. <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/ea436c8d-6255-4572-b705-ffd9193ee521.png> Transit Job of the Week ________________________________ Finance and HR Manager Jeffeson Transti Salary Range: $71,990 to 91,592 Annually The position works in the claims department of a public entity risk pool and provides claims handling, management, support, and administration. Work is performed following established office procedures and general directions. If you are a person that wants to make a positive difference in your state and community, have a positive attitude, can analyze unique events, is organized and task-oriented, thrives in a fast-moving and ever-changing environment, has strong customer/claimant-service and interpersonal skills, and a professional demeanor, this could be your new workplace! Telecommuting is currently available. WSTIP’s office is in Olympia, Washington. <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=f057323d18&e=7ccb4f03e2> ________________________________ ________________________________ WSTA Jobs Board: WSTA offers a comprehensive clearinghouse for transit jobs across the state. Use our website to see the latest job postings. <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=58643aa009&e=7ccb4f03e2> If you are a transit agency and have an opening - please use the submit button on the website. Attention Transit Vendors Please sign up for the WSTA Vendor Email Distribution List to be the first to know. <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=03b075c33d&e=7ccb4f03e2> *If you are not a vendor please do not sign up <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/1877cd28-850f-4d18-987c-7fcdc524d617.png> <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/16fd6fee-3218-4d70-b1fe-2056df0f1434.gif> WSTA pays an annual membership to the Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC), which allows our Transit Agency members access to their services. Check out what is new with MRSC. Available for WSTA Transit Members: Ask MRSC - Ask MRSC Archives <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=de2e89d5e7&e=7ccb4f03e2> ________________________________ Ask Transit WSTA's partn <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/d4f5e03c-25b5-4812-8415-e6065dfea42a.png> er, the Washington State Transit Insurance Pool (WSTIP), provides an "Ask Transit" tool, which allows agency employees to ask a question, and staff will work to research that question and respond back. . Click Here to Ask Transit <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=1318a446c8&e=7ccb4f03e2> <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/fb82d603-27ab-431a-ac10-5225f4a43f6c.png> * Shuttle service between Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula isn’t just a holiday thing this year <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=a74bb3cfe2&e=7ccb4f03e2> . Gig Harbor Now * Light rail extension across Lake Washington will open May 31 or sooner, Sound Transit CEO says <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=e022688372&e=7ccb4f 03e2> . KING * Tacoma Dome Link Extension set to transform South Sound transit by 2035 <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=e628b37339&e=7ccb4f03e2> . KING * Light rail delays persist as Federal Way opening approaches <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=1c14b0283f&e=7ccb4f03e2> . Seattle Times (pdf included) * Metro, regional buses connect you to new 1 Line stations in Federal Way <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=3d7395e560&e=7ccb4f03e2> . Metro Matters blog * Opinion: City’s C-Tran board proposal is reasonable <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=f7a956f84c&e=7ccb4f03e2> . The Columbian (pdf included) * Students, seniors riled by proposed WTA bus fare increases <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=3317ac5da6&e=7ccb4f03e2> . Cascadia Daily News (pdf included) * TranGO wins $9.24M grant for transit center <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=29e8724a56&e=7ccb4f03e2> . Methow Valley News * Light rail to Federal Way is opening, 17 years after approval <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=3eb8f86065&e=7ccb4f03e2> . Axios Seattle * Judge grants C-TRAN injunction against WSDOT <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=0382184f81&e=7ccb4f03e2> . Clark County Today * STA launches low-income riders program, cutting fares in half <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=2a793d4082&e=7ccb4f03e2> . The Spokesman-Review (pdf included) * Ben Franklin Transit donates van to support local youth program TC Futures <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=26585c4de3&e=7ccb4f03e2> . KEPR ________________________________ * Passenger Transport <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=222c3b86b5&e=7ccb4f03e2> Latest Issue <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6 c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=e8cb0992dd&e=7ccb4f03e2> * Metro Magazine News <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=303af4a9d6&e=7ccb4f03e2> * National RTAP <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=765925cf13&e=7ccb4f03e2> * Transit Talent <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=0780342f0d&e=7ccb4f03e2> * Voices of Public Transportation <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=d7694766fe&e=7ccb4f03e2> * T4America <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=28c8fe7933&e=7ccb4f03e2> * CTAA News <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=34d610f372&e=7ccb4f03e2> * Shared-Use Mobility Center <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=56d36951aa&e=7ccb4f03e2> ________________________________ <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=c5872086b6&e=7ccb4f03e2> <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=7654cc89b3&e=7ccb4f03e2> <mailto:justin@watransit.com> <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=0265345b5c&e=7ccb4f03e2> Copyright © WSTA, 2016, All rights reserved. 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