New STARS Service Changes Begin October 5

Service updates are coming to several STARS routes beginning Monday, October 5, 2026.

STARS is updating routes and service to make connections simpler, improve access to important destinations and better match service with the needs of the community.

The changes follow a public input process conducted in spring 2026. STARS used community feedback to help shape the updates and worked to minimize impacts on riders.

What’s changing?

Beginning October 5:

  • Routes 2 and 4 will combine and operate as Route 4

  • Routes 3 and 11 will combine and operate as Route 3

  • Route 8 will have a stop change

  • New stops will be added at several community destinations

  • Delta Direct will add a stop at Delta Downtown

  • Saginaw Community Food Club & Kitchen will be served by Routes 7 and 8

Use the sections below to learn more about each change.

 

Route 2 + Route 4 → Route 4

One route, all service hours

Currently, Routes 2 and 4 operate separately during peak service hours and combine during other service hours.

Starting October 5, they will operate as one combined route during all hours of service.

The combined route will be called Route 4 and will use the Blue Knight icon.

Service by request

Service to the following destinations will be available by request:

  • Washington / Outer Drive

  • Amazon / FedEx

    Route 3 + Route 11 → Route 3

    One route, all service hours

    Routes 3 and 11 will also combine into one route beginning October 5.

    The combined route will operate during all hours of service and will be called Route 3.

    Route 3 will use the rainbow beans bunny icon, inspired by Old Town Saginaw’s Shine Bright silo mural.

    Areas served by the updated Route 3

    The updated route will include changes in the:

    • Michigan Avenue area

    • Center Street area

    • Gratiot Avenue area

    • Superior Street area

    • Maine Avenue area

    • Old Town area

    A new stop near Camelot Apartments at Draper Drive and Center Street is also planned. This stop was specifically requested during the spring public input process.

Other Changes

STARS is adding stops to improve access to schools, community resources and residential services.

Bridgeport High School

A new stop will be added at Bridgeport High School on Route 5.

Houghton Jones Community Center

A new stop will also be added at Houghton Jones Community Center.

Route 8 Stop Change

The current Howard / Hoyt stop will move to Sheridan / Hoyt.

The new location will provide improved access to Hearth Home.

Delta Direct

Delta Direct will add a new stop at Delta Downtown.

There will be no changes to the printed Delta Direct timetable as part of this update.

Saginaw Community Food Club & Kitchen

Beginning October 5, Saginaw Community Food Club & Kitchen will be served by:

  • Route 7

  • Route 8