Abstract: This project encapsulates a comprehensive approach towards establishing equitable connectivity solutions in rural communities across states throughout the Center. The integrated tasks encompass two crucial stages: first, the identification of candidate rural study areas, and second, a needs assessment for microtransit connectivity within these areas. The selection of study locations is guided by criteria such as transportation insecurity, social vulnerability, and community connections with research institutions and collaborators. The USDOT’s Equitable Transportation Community (ETC) explorer provides relevant data to perform diversity criteria and metric-based analysis to select disadvantaged communities. Subsequently, the needs assessment delves into gathering data on existing infrastructure and services, identifying gaps, meeting with local stakeholders, and analyzing demand patterns to ascertain potential microtransit solutions. This interdisciplinary endeavor aims to pave the way for enhanced accessibility and inclusivity in rural transportation systems, fostering community resilience and well-being.