Michigan Voters Again Show Strong Support for Public Transportation
All 19 local transit funding proposals approved in Tuesday's primary election
LANSING, MI – Michigan voters delivered another decisive endorsement of public transportation during Tuesday's primary election, approving all 19 transit-related millage proposals on the ballot.
The successful proposals included new millages, renewals, Headlee restorations, and funding increases for transit agencies serving urban, suburban, and rural communities across Michigan. Major victories included new countywide transit funding in Wayne and Delta counties, along with approved funding increases for transit systems in Alger, Genesee, Manistee, Ogemaw, and Allegan counties.
The results continue a longstanding trend of strong voter support for public transportation. Historically, transit millage proposals in Michigan pass at a rate exceeding 90 percent across election cycles, making them one of the state's most consistently successful local funding measures.
"The message from voters is clear: Michigan communities value public transportation and are willing to invest in it," said John Dulmes, Executive Director of the Michigan Public Transit Association (MPTA). "Across the state, local voters supported transit funding by overwhelming margins because they see firsthand how these services strengthen their communities."
Dulmes said the election results should provide encouragement as policymakers consider Michigan's transportation future.
"These results demonstrate that transit continues to enjoy strong public support in communities of all sizes," Dulmes said. "Local support works best when paired with a strong commitment from state and federal partners. We look forward to continuing to work with policymakers to build on this momentum and keep Michigan moving."
The Michigan Public Transit Association (MPTA) was established in 1977 and represents over 60 transit providers across Michigan. This includes both public transit agencies and specialized service providers utilizing bus, van, and ferry service. Please contact John Dulmes at John@MPTAonline.org for further information.