Operating reimbursement for eligible expenses including employee wages benefits fuel and general operating expenses

The Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration awarded the City of Dubuque $2,861,292 on May 6, 2026, under the Federal Transit Formula Grants program (CFDA 20.507) for operating reimbursement of The Jule, Dubuque's public transit system.

The award funds eligible operating expenses for the period of July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, including employee wages and benefits, fuel, grounds and facilities maintenance, uniforms, equipment, and staff vehicles. The Jule provides fixed-route bus service Monday through Friday from 4:45 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., along with paratransit minibus service during those same hours for individuals qualifying under the Americans with Disabilities Act or seniors aged 65 and older. The transit system serves City of Dubuque residents relying on transit as their primary transportation for employment, education, and other essential needs.

Performance occurs in Iowa. Ultimate completion is scheduled for February 28, 2027. No sub-recipients are involved.

Activities

Funds will be used for the juless operating reimbursement for eligible expenses including employee wages and benefits fuel and general operating expenses to include all tasks and costs related to the maintenance of grounds facilities uniforms equipment staff vehicles. Expected timeframe for eligible reimbursement: july 1 2025 thru june 30 2026

Expected outcomes

The jule will continue to service the residents of dubuque with regular bus service. The jule offers fixed route service monday through friday from 4:45 am to 6:45 PM and saturdays from 8:00 am to 5:45 PM. The jule offers minibus paratransit service for qualifying individuals under ADA or seniors (65+ years). Minibus operates during regular fixed route service hours.

Intended beneficiaries

The jule employees and local residents of the city of dubuque; riders that rely on transit service as their primary form of transportation for access to employment education and other needs.