Section 5311 - Rural Area Formula Program
Forecasted
Section 5311 - Rural Area Formula Program supports rural Michigan transit providers with operating and capital funding to sustain public transportation and help low-income residents reach jobs.
Funder: Michigan Department of Transportation
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: In recent years, operating assistance equaled 18% of eligible expenses for qualifying rural providers
Summary: Federal formula funding supports rural Michigan public transportation operations, capital needs, and access to jobs.
Key Information: Authorities and governmental agencies must be eligible under Michigan Act 51 and receive state operating assistance.
Description
The Section 5311 Rural Area Formula Program provides federal funding for public transportation in rural areas. In Michigan, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) administers the program through its Office of Passenger Transportation. Agencies may use their allocations for operating or capital expenses, supporting both continuing service and the assets needed to provide it.
Section 5311 can also support activities that help low-income individuals reach jobs, including work previously eligible under the Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC) Program. MDOT uses a portion of formula funds to continue existing JARC projects. Intercity bus service is supported through the separate Section 5311(f) component.
