Request $207066 in federal capital funds for construction of parking facilities from lapsing funds 5339 - auburn/opelika to use for LEE-russell public transit-lrpt

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded $258,833 in formula grant funding (CFDA 20.526, Buses and Bus Facilities Formula, Competitive, and Low or No Emissions Programs) to the Lee Russell Council of Governments on August 28, 2025, for the design and construction of a transit parking facility in Opelika, Alabama. The award comprises $207,066 in federal capital funds and $51,767 in local matching funds, distributed across two fiscal years (FY2022: $113,997 and FY2023: $93,069). The project is expected to reach ultimate completion by March 30, 2032.

The deliverables include a fully designed and constructed transit parking lot featuring 30 transit-sized parking spaces, 10-12 employee spaces, parking lot lighting, and two driveway accesses to Fox Trail Road. The facility will also incorporate a covered maintenance area for minor vehicle work and a 10-by-12 prefabricated storage building with utilities. Landscaping will be provided to buffer the lot from adjacent streets. Construction management and project oversight will be contracted to a third party. This infrastructure project is intended to enhance security for Lee Russell Public Transportation (LRPT) operations and drivers while reducing unauthorized access to buses, thereby preventing theft and damage. Primary beneficiaries include Auburn-Opelika transit passengers and LRPT employees.

Activities

The LEE-russell council of governments proposes to design and construct a transit parking lot in the city of opelika alabama. The project will be a federal action eligible for FTA funding. The proposed project will provide for a transit parking lot design that includes parking spaces complete with parking lot lighting and driveway access to FOX trail road. The parcel of land is located on FOX trail run and is owned by the city of opelika. The parcel will not be deeded to the LEE-russell council of governments. The transit parking lot design will provide 30 transit size parking spaces and an additional 10 to 12 employee parking spaces complete with parking lot lighting and two (2) driveway accesses to FOX trail road. Design for the parking lot will also include a covered area to allow minor work on the transit vehicles and a 10 by 12 refabricated building that has storage for supplies and paperwork. The building will have power with an inside and an outside light on the building. Landscaping will be provided to buffer the parking lot from the adjacent street. Maps and site plan can be found under the attached document - information required to initiated nepa combined. Construction management and project oversight will be contracted with a third party.

Expected outcomes

Assist in preventing illegal access to buses which in turn helps prevent theft and damage to buses. Also provides more security for drivers.

Intended beneficiaries

Auburn opelika passengers and lrpt employees.