Consulting Services for Development of a Small Rural Transit Program
Imlay City, Michigan

Issued by

Four County Community Foundation (4CCF), in partnership with the Hispanic Service Center of Imlay City

Project Overview

Four County Community Foundation (4CCF), in partnership with the Hispanic Service Center of Imlay City, is seeking a qualified transportation consultant to guide the development and early implementation of a small, community-based rural transit program in Imlay City, Michigan.

This rural transit project will focus on affordable, accessible transportation with a priority on healthcare access and older adults. The program is funded by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), with additional funding sought to support senior transportation.

Scope of Services

The selected consultant will provide technical guidance and expertise, including but not limited to:

• Refinement of transit policies and procedures
• Guidance on operating models appropriate for small rural and nonprofit-based transit systems
• Assistance with fare structures, eligibility, scheduling, and recordkeeping
• Guidance on compliance, risk management, and best practices for small transit providers
• Support during early implementation and program launch. (Monthly from February 2026 – September 2027).
• Coordination with project partners and stakeholders as needed

Desired Qualifications

Consultants responding to this RFQ should demonstrate:

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in public, nonprofit, or rural transit planning, operations, or consulting
• Demonstrated experience supporting small-scale, rural, or community-based transit programs
• Expertise in developing transit policies, procedures, and training materials
• Familiarity with Michigan transit systems and/or federal and state transportation funding programs (preferred)
• Experience working with older adults, people with disabilities, and underserved communities
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with nonprofit and community partners

Submission Requirements

Interested consultants should submit a qualifications package that includes:

1. Letter of interest describing relevant experience
2. Statement of qualifications and approach to the project
3. Summary of similar projects completed within the past 5–10 years
4. Résumé(s) of key personnel who would work on the project
5. At least three professional references

Selection Process

Proposals will be evaluated based on demonstrated experience, qualifications, understanding of rural transit needs, and ability to guide policy, procedure, and training development. Interviews may be conducted with finalists.

Anticipated Timeline

• RFQ Issued: January 20, 2026
• Qualifications Due: January 30, 2026
• Consultant Selection: January 31, 2026
• Project Start: February 15, 2026

Submission Instructions

Qualifications should be submitted electronically in PDF format to:

Kathy Dickens
Four County Community Foundation
kdickens@4ccf.org
Subject Line: RFQ – Imlay City Rural Transit Consultant