More funding secured to help STARS improve fleet

SAGINAW, Mich. (WNEM) – New federal funding will help the Saginaw Transit Authority Regional Services (STARS) update its aging fleet and improve service for mid-Michigan residents.

Congressman Dan Kildee announced Feb. 15 that more funding was secured for the eight STARS buses was through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bus and Bus Facilities Program.

The announcement was made at the Potter Street Station, an iconic Saginaw landmark, and the location was chosen intentionally.

“The event was held at Potter Street Station because it represents a vision STARS is working toward, with Congressman Kildee’s help, of improved service for residents and a revitalized city,” a spokesperson for Kildee said.

The company signed off on a $411,000 study in July of 2022 to find out where its future should be, and one of the locations they were considering was the Potter Street Station.

This funding is in addition to a $4 million grant though a community project funding initiative, to help STARS purchase 10 new buses.

The new buses include high-definition security systems, automatic wheelchair restraints, and air cleaning systems to improve transportation safety and efficiency for mid-Michigan residents.

There will be 18 new buses in total. Officials said they will help meet STARS’ goal of replacing up to 33 buses by 2026.

“When we invest in our regional bus systems, we’re investing in the thousands of mid-Michigan residents who rely on these services every day to go to school, work, and the doctor,” said Kildee. “Today’s investment will make mid-Michigan’s public transit system more reliable and our community more connected.”

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