Cmaq transferred funds will be used to launch a new pilot bus service for dutchess county public transit

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded $1,514,500 to the County of Dutchess (operating as Dutchess County Transportation) under the Federal Transit Formula Grants program (CFDA 20.507) on September 3, 2025, for a three-year pilot initiative extending through June 30, 2028. The grant funds the acquisition of one hybrid bus and implementation of a limited-stop express bus service designed to enhance workforce mobility in Dutchess County, New York. The express service will provide direct connections between residential communities and key employment centers with reduced commute times and high-frequency service aligned with employee shift schedules.

The pilot program delivers targeted public transportation services that reduce reliance on personal vehicles, lower regional emissions, and expand employment access for residents facing transportation barriers. By offering reliable, high-frequency transit routes to major employment hubs, the project supports economic development while improving the regional transit network's operational efficiency. No subrecipient activities were identified under this award.

Activities

Funding will be used to purchase one hybrid bus and provide a three-year pilot program to operate a limited-stop express bus service to key employment centers. This pilot program will support more direct service from residential areas to employment locations in a shorter time. The program would not only benefit ridership but also contribute to the overall prosperity of dutchess county.

Expected outcomes

The express service will provide direct service from residential areas to several new employment centers in the county. This limited-stop service is designed to reduce commute times increase reliability and expand access to job opportunities for residents who may face transportation challenges. By offering a targeted high-frequency route that aligns with employee shift schedules the pilot aims to boost ridership support economic development and decrease reliance on personal vehicles. This will help lower emissions and create a more efficient regional transit network.

Intended beneficiaries

Residents community and visitors of dutchess county.