Local transit systems from across the Upper Peninsula are calling on state lawmakers to solve a funding crisis that threatens public transportation access. Their concerns are reflected in a recent report from the Michigan Public Transit Association (MPTA) revealing that years of underfunding have pushed public transit systems across the state to a breaking point, threatening access to jobs, healthcare and education for thousands of Michiganders.

A recent survey of Michigan transit providers resulted in the following findings:

• The demand for public transit is growing across the state, with 75% of transit providers reporting an increase in ridership over the past four years, including some counties experiencing a 45% ridership increase.
• Note: UP transit systems provided more than 568,000 bus rides during the last fiscal year. The Upper Peninsula’s population is older on average than other Michigan counties, with many seniors relying on local transit systems.
• Transit providers are seeing significant increases in transportation costs, including employee wages and insurance costs, leading to an overall expense increase for agencies between 25% and 50% over the past four years.
• In response to decreased state funding, many transit providers are implementing tough cuts that will negatively impact their communities, including decreases in hours of operations, reduced hiring of drivers and delayed improvements to facilities.

The Governor’s proposed budget of just $226 million for Local Bus Operating (LBO) would result in significant cuts and by far the lowest-ever rate of state support. This could leave potentially thousands of residents without access to necessities. Michigan transit providers are urging lawmakers to prioritize increased operating funds in this year’s state budget.

John Stapleton, executive director of the Delta Area Transit Authority and Schoolcraft County Transit Authority, notes that local transit agencies have had to cut back on hiring of drivers and mechanics, making it harder to maintain service. “Our area’s only taxi service recently closed, and while we would love to help provide all those necessary rides, the reduced state funding keeps us from doing that,” said Stapleton.

“Our community members depend upon Gogebic County Transit for trips to work and especially for essential medical trips – many of great distances,” said Jim Oliver, executive director of the Gogebic County Transit Authority. “We need Lansing legislators to step up – not just to pass the budget and fix the roads, but to protect critical local transit services.”

“In Alger County, ALTRAN is not just transportation — it is the bridge between isolation and opportunity for seniors, persons with disabilities, and workers who have no other way to get where they need to go,” said Altran Director Erich Fix. “Every ride we provide is a lifeline to medical care, jobs, groceries, and human connection in a rural region where distances are vast and options are scarce. Cutting transit funding here doesn’t just trim a budget line — it strands people, erodes independence, and weakens the backbone of our community.”

The MPTA and UP transit systems are working with Governor Whitmer and UP legislators – including Representatives Markkanen, Bohnak, Prestin, and Fairbairn, and Senators McBroom and Damoose - to ensure the state’s budget and any road funding deal restore funding to maintain and enhance public transportation services.

“Reliable, accessible public transportation strengthens our economy, reduces disparities and supports essential services,” said Dulmes. “We can’t afford to let this be another missed opportunity to invest in a sustainable, 21st-century transportation system—one that works for every person and business in our state. We need our state leaders to act now, or Michigan families, businesses and workers will pay the price.”

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The Michigan Public Transit Association (MPTA) was established in 1974 and represents over 60 transit providers across Michigan. This includes both public transit agencies and specialized service companies utilizing a variety of vehicles, including bus, van, and ferry service.