Improve the agencys transit maintenance capabilities through the purchase of shop equipment diagnostic software maintenance tools and mechanic training associated with the operation and maintenance of…

The Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration awarded the City of Porterville $172,916 on July 31, 2026, under the Buses and Bus Facilities Formula, Competitive, and Low or No Emissions Programs (CFDA 20.526) to improve transit maintenance capabilities through purchase of shop equipment, diagnostic software, maintenance tools, and mechanic training for nine new transit buses acquired this year.

The recipient will procure transit maintenance shop equipment, diagnostic software, diagnostic tools, and related maintenance support items. The award funds mechanic and maintenance staff training to support operation, troubleshooting, inspection, and maintenance of the nine new buses, including vendor-supported training, technical instruction, equipment installation, and implementation of maintenance support systems. Expected outcomes include improved transit fleet reliability, increased maintenance efficiency, enhanced diagnostic and repair capabilities, reduced vehicle downtime, and improved staff technical knowledge aligned with manufacturer requirements and industry best practices.

The award covers performance in California with a period of performance through December 31, 2027. This formula grant funds capital equipment and training eligible under the program's bus and bus facilities mandate, serving transit riders, maintenance staff, and the broader transit system.

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to improve the agencys transit maintenance capabilities through the purchase of shop equipment diagnostic software maintenance tools and mechanic training associated with the operation and maintenance of nine (9) new transit buses purchased this year. The project will enhance maintenance efficiency support staff readiness improve vehicle reliability and help ensure the fleet is maintained in accordance with manufacturer and industry standards.

Activities

Activities to be performed under this project include the procurement of transit maintenance shop equipment diagnostic software diagnostic tools and related maintenance support items for the agencys new fleet vehicles. The project will also include mechanic and maintenance staff training necessary to support the operation troubleshooting inspection and maintenance of the nine (9) new buses purchased this year. Activities may include vendor-supported training technical instruction equipment installation and implementation of maintenance support systems.

Expected outcomes

Expected outcomes of the project include improved transit fleet reliability increased maintenance efficiency enhanced diagnostic and repair capabilities and improved staff technical knowledge related to the agencys new buses. The project will help reduce vehicle downtime support preventative maintenance efforts and ensure maintenance personnel are properly trained and equipped to maintain the fleet in accordance with manufacturer requirements and industry best practices.

Intended beneficiaries

Project beneficiaries include transit riders maintenance staff and the overall transit system. Transit passengers will benefit from improved vehicle reliability safety and service continuity. Maintenance personnel will benefit from enhanced training diagnostic capabilities and updated shop equipment necessary to effectively maintain the agencys new fleet vehicles. The project will also benefit the transit agency through improved operational efficiency and reduced vehicle downtime.