The purpose of this award is for the purchase of one (1) revenue vehicle that will operate on the interurban trolley fixed route system

The Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration awarded Michiana Area Council of Governments (MACOG) $625,000 on July 13, 2026, under the Buses and Bus Facilities Formula, Competitive, and Low or No Emissions Programs (CFDA 20.526) to purchase one 35-foot revenue vehicle for operation on the Interurban Trolley fixed-route system.

The vehicle will serve transit riders in Elkhart and Goshen, Indiana, replacing buses that have reached the end of their useful lives and providing more efficient, reliable, and safer transit service throughout the service area. The federal share totals $500,000 with an 80/20 cost ratio; MACOG is programming an additional $125,000 local share, for a total project cost of $625,000.

Performance extends through June 30, 2027. Place of performance is Indiana. No sub-recipients are involved in delivery.

Activities

The 5339 funds will be used to cover capital expenses for the purchase of one (1) 35 foot revenue vehicle that will operate on the interurban trolley fixed route system. The vehicle has a total federal share cost of $500000 and a local share of $125000. Macog is programming the federal share of $500000 with a cost ratio of 80/20 for the purchase of these buses.

Expected outcomes

Funding will be used to support the interurban trolley transit services in elkhart and goshen in and provide transit riders with better service via new buses to replace buses that have reached the end of their useful lives

Intended beneficiaries

The interurban trolley service and the riders who rely on the transit service will benefit from more efficient reliable and safer service to and from their destinations throughout the elkhart and goshen in service area.