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Citation: FEMA-1646-DR-CA, San Mateo County Transit District, Transportation Service, PW 206

Cross-reference: General Eligibility

Summary: As a result of disaster-related damage, Highway 1 was impassable and temporarily closed for repairs. Due to the road closure, public bus transportation service between Montara and Pacifica was disrupted. The San Mateo County Transit District (Applicant) provided supplementary bus service to ensure continuation of public transportation for the affected communities while Highway 1 was closed. FEMA denied the Applicant’s request for $155,044 in additional costs related to the transportation service stating that the cost was an increased operating expense. In its appeal, the Applicant claims that the cost should be eligible as emergency public transportation.

Issue(s): 1. Does Section 419 of the Stafford Act authorize reimbursement to Public
Assistance applicants for emergency public transportation?

2. Is emergency public transportation eligible other than under Section 419 of the
Stafford Act?

Finding(s): 1. No. Section 419 of the Stafford Act authorizes emergency public
transportation through Direct Federal Assistance, but does not authorize
contributions to State or local government for providing transportation service.

2. No.

Rationale: Stafford Act Section 419; 44 CFR §206.208; 44 CFR §206.255(d).