Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced her state will invest $65 million in public transit projects statewide, as well as for a new coordinator of transit and rail.
The funding, part of the state’s Infrastructure Projects Authority Fund (IPAF), supports transformational public transportation projects across the state. Part of the Sustainable Road Funding Plan, the investments create or expand transit systems, restore service in communities that have lost their access to public transportation and improve regional connections.
The state will also create a new position within the Michigan Department of Transportation to help coordinate transit and rail operations. Part of Whitmer’s commitment to supporting public transit and strengthening mobility, the new position will ensure the state’s transportation system meets the needs of Michiganders today and in the future. The position will be followed by additional actions to enhance coordination across state governments to support transit and multimodal transportation, officials said.
“From rural to urban communities across the state, these investments will help expand vital public transit services and get people where they need to go,” Whitmer said. “As part of my plan to fix the damn roads, we’re expanding and improving public transit with new funding and a new role in state government. Today’s announcement will strengthen regional mobility and support innovative transportation solutions, all while helping more Michiganders access jobs, healthcare, education, and opportunity.”
Officials said the IPAF was created in the state’s FY 2026 budget, and provides long-term capital for public transportation. The IPAF awards include $94,750 for Benzie County’s Benzie Transportation Authority for a rural transit service transformation and connectivity study; $4.3 million for Newaygo County to develop a new rural transit agency for that county; and $9.9million for Genesee County’s Mass Transportation Authority for new service.
“MDOT is pleased to award these new transit investments to agencies across the state,” State Transportation Director Bradley C. Wieferich said. “These investments are made possible by the Neighborhood Roads Fund and provides much needed assistance to transit agencies working to connect riders to daily essentials, including health care services and jobs. Reliable public transportation helps communities thrive. These new transit investments will help us to continue delivering on our mission to serve and connect people, communities, and the economy through transportation.”