Nearly $2.6M in federal funds allocated for Rockdale trails, veterans transportation and senior services

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA–Rockdale County officials announced that nearly $2.6 million in federal funding has been included in the FY26 appropriations bills to support three critical local projects. These investments, championed by Congressman David Scott and Senator Jon Ossoff, represent significant steps forward in transportation access, trail improvements, and senior services for Rockdale residents.

The House Appropriations Committee bill includes two projects submitted by 
Congressman Scott: 

• Rockdale Veterans Transportation Program Vehicle Acquisition– $165,200
• Rockdale River Trail Improvements– $500,000

Separately, the Senate Appropriations Committee included $1,900,000 submitted by U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff for its Transportation, Housing and Urban Development bill: 

• Senior Center Satellite Project

“These investments reflect our continued commitment to improving the quality of life for Rockdale residents,” said Rockdale County Chair JaNice Van Ness. “From supporting our veterans with reliable transportation to enhancing access to green space and expanding services for seniors—this federal support will strengthen our entire community. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Scott and Senator Ossoff for their steadfast leadership and advocacy for Rockdale County.”

The Veterans Transportation Program will acquire an additional dedicated vehicle to ensure veterans can access medical appointments and critical services, officials said. Trail improvements will enhance recreational infrastructure and expand safe access to the Rockdale River Trail system. The Senior Center Satellite Project will support the expansion of services to better meet the needs of the county’s growing senior population.

“We are thankful to our congressional delegation for prioritizing these impactful projects,” said Rockdale County Chief of Operations Sue Sanders. “This level of support reflects real progress toward a healthier, more connected, and more inclusive Rockdale.”

While the appropriations process is still underway, these developments represent a key milestone in securing funding. The federal budget must be passed by both chambers of Congress and signed into law by the President before funds are released.

Rockdale County officials said they will continue to monitor the progress of the FY26 federal appropriations bills and provide updates as they advance.