Michigan's public transit agencies are looking at the lowest local bus investment rate in 70 years under the proposed state budget for the 2026 fiscal year, according to one transportation non-profit. If left unchanged, it will take effect in October. This comes as rural agencies struggle to keep up with growing demand.
At a recent press conference, Ionia Dial-a-Ride Executive Director Heidi Wenzel said they've seen people who have walked to the edge of their current service area just to have access to transportation.
"It's a challenge not only for us on a daily basis to meet the request of our current available service, but there's a big growing demand for additional transportation," Wenzel said during the press conference. "There's a lot of rural communities around us with zero access to public transit. It's really concerning with the looming funding cliff for our community and many throughout the state."
Michigan Public Transit Association Executive Director John Dulmes explained how Michiganders who rely on public transportation are experiencing the funding crisis through reduced service areas or days, limited fixed routes, or a lack of drivers.
"It's hard to keep [busses] out there," Dulmes said. "People might miss their appointments or be late to work, or they might avoid using this service at all."
Megan Owens, executive director of Transportation Riders United, discussed how the funding for public transit has remained flat over the last few decades. She pointed out how the agencies need at least $200 million in additional funds just to get to full funding across the state.
"We know that our transit systems across the state are not fully addressing all of the needs of our community and we need to invest in transformational transit to connect between our cities," Owens said. "We are excited to see the governor's new proposal. That would be a huge step towards providing the funding our transit agencies need, assuming it actually goes through."
Earlier this month, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proposed the Mi Road Ahead plan, which would give public transit an additional $250 million and $1 billion in local road repairs.
“I appreciate Governor Whitmer’s joining the conversation on this issue and I look forward to working together to ensure Michigan drivers get the safe, reliable roads they deserve," said Republican speaker of the Michigan House Matt Hall. "...our approach focuses on our long-neglected local roads that people drive from their driveway to the highway and finally gives us a clear plan to fix them."
