Governor Rendell and the General Assembly agreed to a $4.8 million line-item in the 2006-07 budget for the program, which allows persons with disabilities better access to jobs and health care.
Started in 2001, the program was expanded this year to include 43 counties. When the latest counties are added, it will serve more than 77,000 people in 49 of the state's 67 counties.
"Access to transportation is critical to meeting the employment, health care and quality of life needs of Pennsylvanians with disabilities," Governor Rendell said. "We are committed to addressing these needs as we work to enhance transportation for all segments of Pennsylvania."
The program will be expanded to Chester, Franklin, Lebanon, Lehigh, Northampton and Montgomery Counties, meaning service for an additional 10,000 people.
PennDOT will work with the providers to determine the amount each requires to start the service.
