As part of the federal budget passed today, STARS will receive $4M to be used toward the purchase of 10 large transit buses. This funding will allow STARS to improve much-needed transportation services allowing riders better access to medical and mental healthcare, education, and jobs.

“We are so thankful for the support of Congressman Dan Kildee, who made this funding possible. This represents a huge step toward fleet viability and the reliability that Saginaw deserves,” said Glenn Steffens, Executive Director.

“Mid-Michigan families rely on our transit system whether it is to get to their job, health care appointment or school,” said Congressman Dan Kildee. “I am pleased Democrats and Republicans came together to pass this government spending bill, which included my request for critical funding for the Saginaw Transit Authority Regional Services to purchase new buses.”

The current STARS fleet of 43 full size buses was purchased used or refurbished to extend their use. In 2019, STARS was awarded a discretionary grant to fund vehicle replacements along with facility and security updates. That grant funded eight buses currently being manufactured in California which will be the first “new” full-size transit buses for STARS since 2010. Combined with today’s appropriation, half of STARS bus route fleet will be replaced with more efficient and comfortable vehicles by 2024.