Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced Monday that the state’s Infrastructure Projects Authority Fund is allocating $65 million in grants to transit initiatives across the state, with more than $20 million earmarked for projects in West Michigan. The funding is intended to expand vital public‑transport services, connect residents to jobs, education and health care, and strengthen local economies.
Funding breakdown for West Michigan
Berrien County Transit Authority Implementation Project – $6,371,927
The grant will help create a unified Berrien County public‑transport authority and launch service to areas that currently lack any transit options.
Transportation Authority of Calhoun County – $2.35 million
These funds will support early planning and design for a proposed Next Generation Multimodal Transportation Center in Battle Creek, a hub that will improve regional connectivity.
City of Ionia Transit – $1,110,859
The money will expand the I‑Go micro‑transit service, adding three accessible vehicles and two new weekday routes to better serve Ionia County residents.
Kent County – Interurban Transit Partnership – $6 million
The grant will fund additional transit services during major events in downtown Grand Rapids, helping manage increased travel demand from venues such as Acrisure Amphitheater, the planned Amway Soccer Stadium, Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place and DeVos Performance Hall.
Newaygo County – $4.3 million
Newaygo County will use the award to launch the first countywide open‑door public‑transport system, providing reliable access to health care, employment, education and essential services. Board Chair Bryan Kolk praised the investment, noting its “significant positive impact” on residents.
Ottawa County – Harbor Transit – $621,047
The grant supports enhancements to the Harbor Transit Multimodal Transportation System, including extended weekday and Saturday service to 10 p.m., Sunday service to 6 p.m., and a new connection to Grand Valley State University’s Allendale campus.
Ottawa County – MAX Transit – $260,000
The award will fund an architectural and engineering study for a potential relocation of the downtown Holland hub to the Westshore Mall, a site that could accommodate additional bus bays, indoor waiting areas and future electric‑bus charging infrastructure.
Why these investments matter
Governor Whitmer emphasized that reliable public‑transportation options are essential for families, seniors and workers in both rural and urban communities. By expanding routes, adding accessible vehicles and improving connections to schools, hospitals and major employment centers, the grants aim to strengthen the social fabric of West Michigan and promote economic growth.
Local officials echoed the governor’s sentiment. “We are grateful for the State of Michigan’s investment and proud to continue expanding transportation opportunities throughout our county,” said Bryan Kolk of Newaygo County. Similar enthusiasm was expressed by officials in Berrien, Calhoun, Ionia, Kent and Ottawa counties, all of whom see the funding as a catalyst for safer, more convenient travel for their constituents.
Looking ahead
The awarded projects are slated to move forward over the next several months, with many agencies already beginning planning, design and procurement phases. As these transit improvements take shape, residents can expect more reliable service, reduced travel times and greater access to the jobs, schools and health‑care facilities that sustain their families and communities.
State officials will continue to monitor the implementation of the grants, ensuring that the funds are used efficiently and that the promised benefits reach the people who need them most.
Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.
