Rural agencies need to leverage communication.

Jurisdictional boundaries, miles of rugged terrain, and technological barriers stand between rural transit agencies who have much to benefit from being in closer communication. Poor communication also creates barriers for riders looking to take inter-county and inter-state trips. The National Rural Transit Assistance Program (RTAP) has created a networking toolkit for state transit managers and another for agency-level managers. Creating a Human Service Transportation Plan is another way agencies can instigate dialogue and action. State public transit associations also offer trainings, conferences, and networking tools for member agencies. By leveraging communication with other agencies, rural transit practitioners can address challenges with greater confidence and expertise.