Williamsport is among 23 metropolitan areas statewide set to receive a portion of more than $1 billion in federal transportation funding as part of Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) legislation.

The $7.2 million local share comes from the Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration, according to U.S. Sen. Robert Casey, D-Scranton.

“During this time of great uncertainty and difficulty, Pennsylvania’s rural and urban areas alike need support to respond to COVID-19. I am pleased that the transportation systems in our communities will receive a combined total of $1.13 billion in FTA grants to support transit operations, pay employees who are unable to work due to the pandemic and continue operating for those who rely on public transportation,” Casey said. “Our public transit systems are a backbone of our communities and I will continue to work to ensure they receive the resources they need during this time of national crisis.”

Funding for urban areas is allocated to metropolitan areas while rural funding is allocated to the state, according to Casey.

In addition to the FTA funding, rural areas will also receive funds through the Appalachian Development Public Transportation Assistance Program.

It is unknown how funding will be dispersed locally.

Dan Merk, transportation manager for STEP Inc., Williamsport said any dollars for his agency would certainly be welcome.

“I don’t think we have the final details on that funding,” he said.

STEP helps fill transit needs for populations of Lycoming and surrounding counties that include senior citizens, people with disabilities, preschool children and their families, and the employed in need of transportation assistance.

River Valley Transit, Williamsport, provides public transportation throughout Lycoming and Clinton counties.

RVT officials were not available for comment Friday to speak about potential funding allocations.

Lycoming County Commissioner Rick Mirabito noted that the funding comes at a time when COVID-19 has crippled so many agencies and businesses that serve the community.

“It is good news for the area,” he said.

Other metropolitan areas sharing in the FTA funding include: State College, $9.5 million; Bloomsburg-Berwick, $2.2 million; and Altoona, $3.7 million

Mirabito noted that the CARES act is also providing small businesses with various resources as they struggle to operate through the coronavirus pandemic.

“We have so many small businesses. This will help them get what they need,” he said. “They are the backbone of the community.”