New transportation programs offered throughout King County are now up and running or online, thanks to a $786,778 award in federal and state funding.

Hopelink was recently awarded grants for its new Ride around the Sound program, for its information kiosks, and also for the previously existing Mobility Management program.

The objective of the programs are to provide mobility from job seekers and those who are just recovering from the effects of the recession.

There are four programs funded through the recent grant. The first is “Ride Around the Sound” (RAS). Set to begin in early 2012, the program teaches people to how to ride public transit in the Puget Sound area. This program will offer free group excursions on public transit to social service locations, cultural sites and educational events.

Also being funded are 10 computer-based transportation kiosks at local medical centers to allow patients, their families, and hospital employees to access immediate information about their transportation options.

“One Stop Access” is another program being funded by the grants. This program will develop a one-click transportation website, smartphone app, and four additional kiosks that serve veterans.

Finally, “Mobility Management” provides travel education and resources through three training programs, including “Ride Around the Sound.”

For more information about these programs, contact Mobility Manager Michelle Zeidman at 425.943.6737 or mzeidman@hope-link.org.