Program Overview

The Advancing Rural Mobility Program is expanding statewide and now welcoming new transit agencies. Participating agencies receive hands-on support to publish GTFS-Flex data and connect with the MiTripPlanner, making their services more visible and accessible to riders. The program received a federal Stage 1 Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) grant to launch the first phase with 15 agencies. MDOT is now using state funding and pursuing additional federal funding to continue to expand the project’s reach and impact. 

Who Should Join

We invite MDOT-funded transit agencies receiving formula funding or local bus operating assistance to join the program. To participate or learn more, please reach out to MDOT Project Manager Sherry Vandevender at VandevenderS@michigan.gov.

Why It Matters

Integration with the MiTripPlanner tool helps riders discover and plan trips more easily, improving access to transit options across Michigan. Participating agencies also benefit from technical support, consistent data across platforms, and increased visibility. The program helps expand mobility in rural communities, provides reliable transit information, and establishes a replicable model for future transit innovations. Learn more about key partner benefits at MiRuralMobility.org.

Partner Agency Spotlight: Crawford County Transportation Authority (CCTA)

Serving Crawford County since 1976, Crawford County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides reliable demand-response transportation to communities including Frederic, Maple Forest, Beaver Creek, South Branch, Roscommon,

M-72 East and West, and Lovells. With a fleet of 16 buses and 3 vans, CCTA ensures inclusive service for all riders. Operating Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., CCTA connects rural residents to essential destinations. The scheduled departure times from Grayling are available here.

Upcoming Technology Events/Tech Talks

October 27, 2025, 1-2 p.m. - Interoperability – it’s a word we hear a lot but might not understand exactly what it means or why we should care about it. Scott Frazier, managing partner for Compiler LLC and program manager for Mobility Data Interoperability Principles, will explain why it’s critical that you understand interoperability when implementing technology and provide resources to ensure you have it covered in your tech procurements.



November 19, 10-11 a.m. - Automatic Wheelchair Securement - Quantum, from wheelchair securement company Q’Straint, allows wheelchair users to secure their mobility device with the push of a button, requiring no assistance from the driver. MDOT received an FTA COVID-19 Research and Demonstration Project grant to deploy Quantums at three transit agencies, to improve social distancing and mitigate spread of the COVID-19 virus. Mike Laidlaw of Q’Straint will explain how the Quantums work, and Menlo Innovations will present findings from their independent evaluation of the COVID-19 project, sharing insights from passengers and agency staff about the Quantums, as well as lessons learned that apply to introducing any new technology. 

Stay Connected

Please get in touch with MDOT Project Manager Sherry Vandevender at VandevenderS@michigan.gov with any questions or comments.