Provide funding for the purchase of 1 replacement vehicle support of the commuting alternatives (rideshare) program (100% federal funds) and clean air action days

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded Interurban Transit Partnership (ITP), operating as The Rapid in Grand Rapids, Michigan, $696,010 under the Federal Transit Formula Grants program (CFDA 20.507) on September 15, 2025, for the purchase of one replacement fixed-route transit vehicle. The award obligates 100% federal funding to replace a diesel-fueled vehicle with a compressed natural gas (CNG)-fueled alternative, enabling ITP to maintain its rolling stock in a state of good repair while reducing operational emissions and fuel costs over the vehicle's service life.

The funding also supports the continuation of ITP's Community Alternatives (Rideshare) Program and Clean Air Action Days initiatives, which promote transportation demand management (TDM) and alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles. These services expand transit options for the region's workforce and community members, enhance access to employment and business centers, and contribute to improved air quality. The award period extends through August 28, 2028, with no subrecipient activities identified. No subawards were made in connection with this formula grant.

Purpose

The purpose of this award is to provide funding for the purchase of 1 replacement vehicle support of the commuting alternatives (rideshare) program (100% federal funds) and clean air action days.

Activities

Funds will be used to purchase up to 1 replacement fixed route vehicle the continuation of the community alternatives (rideshare) program that promotes alternatives to single occupancy vehicles and clean air action days.

Expected outcomes

Funding will permit the interurban transit partnership to replace a diesel fueled vehicle with a CNG fueled vehicle and gain long term cost savings since IT is predicted that in the long run fuel costs will continue to trend upwards. IT will allow ITP to keep rolling stock in a state of good repair and further reduce the impact on air pollution by reducing emissions and pollutants with the promotion of alternative fueled vehicles and the continuation of the rideshare programs and clean air action days. The continuation of rideshare/TDM activities promotes opportunities for individuals to find and be matched with transit options. Providing additional transit options not only increases the pool of available employees for available jobs but IT also optimizes access to businesses in all industries of the community enhancing economic growth.

Intended beneficiaries

Interurban transit partnership and the riders that rely on its service along with community members will benefit from continued services and a variety of transit opportunities.