Chattooga County residents have until Friday, October 9, to submit comments or request a public hearing concerning the county’s application for federal funding for its rural public transportation program.

A public notice concerning the application was published Thursday, September 24, giving residents 15 days from the date of publication to respond.

The Chattooga County Transit System is applying for funding assistance under Section 5311 of the Federal Transit Act, which provides assistance for public transportation in rural areas.

The county transit system provides transportation for residents for purposes including medical appointments, shopping, social services and other needs.

As part of the application process, the county is seeking comments and concerns from the general public about local rural transportation services. Input is specifically being requested from elderly, low-income and disabled residents and their representatives to ensure their transportation needs are considered.

Private for-profit transportation operators are also being given an opportunity to provide input or express interest in participating in the program.

Residents may request that a public hearing be held to discuss the transportation services being offered or development of the funding application.

Comments and requests should be submitted to Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen, 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville. The Commissioner’s Office can also be reached at 706-857-0700.

If no response is received during the 15-day comment period, the Chattooga County Transit System will proceed with its funding application.