Urban Area Program
Forecasted
Urban Area Program supports public transit authorities in Michigan’s urban areas by funding locally selected vehicles, equipment, facilities, and security systems to meet community transit needs.
Funder: Michigan Department of Transportation
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Capital assistance; award amounts are not listed
Summary: Supports locally selected public transit capital projects in Michigan through federal Surface Transportation Block Grant funds.
Key Information: Applicants must submit to their Metropolitan Planning Organization and request projects through MDOT’s Office of Passenger Transportation application process.
Description
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) administers the Urban Area Program using federal Surface Transportation Block Grant funds. Projects are selected locally, allowing communities to direct capital assistance toward public transit needs. The program supports public transit authorities in service areas with populations between 50,000 and 200,000; its eligibility listing also includes certain governmental agencies and private nonprofit transportation providers.
Eligible projects include purchases, rehabilitation, and leases of buses and vans; support and administrative vehicles; vehicle, office, computer, communications, and maintenance equipment; facility construction, improvements, and purchases; and security or surveillance systems for buses and facilities. The program uses the flexibility of federal highway funding to support transit capital needs.
