Council endorses NCRTD FY2026 allocation and authorizes FTA 5311 application for Atomic City Transit

The Incorporated County of Los Alamos County Council on July 8 endorsed the North Central Regional Transit District's FY2026 budget proposal and approved a county service plan for submission to the NCRTD. Council also authorized an application to the New Mexico Department of Transportation for Federal Transit Administration Section 5311 'Formula Grants for Rural Areas' funding for federal fiscal year 2027 in the amount of $5,941,919 to support Atomic City Transit’s administrative, operating and capital needs.

County staff member Mr. Bridal presented the two related resolutions. “This year, we're proposing an allocation to Los Alamos County of just over $2,000,000… NCRTD has budgeted the $2,031,000 allocation for GRT towards Los Alamos County,” Bridal said, describing the county’s GRT allocation and the service plan submitted to show local needs and to secure reimbursement for FY2026 awards.

Bridal explained the county submits an annual MOU that includes $350,000 for Atomic City Transit administration and that any underfunding for FY2026 will be covered by the county general fund or by Section 5311 funding if awarded. He described the 5311 application as the county’s routine annual request to the state and federal program to continue operating and provide service to the community.

Councilors asked no substantive questions during the presentations. Councilor Hammond moved approval of resolution 25‑13 endorsing the NCRTD FY2026 budget and the service plan and directed the county manager to submit the plan; Councilor Regor seconded. The roll call recorded six yes votes and one absence; the motion passed.

Councilor Hammond then moved approval of resolution 25‑12 authorizing application to the New Mexico Department of Transportation for FTA Section 5311 funding in the amount of $5,941,919; Councilor Regor seconded. Councilors again recorded six affirmative votes and one absence, and the motion passed.

Staff told council that the service plan intentionally exceeded the immediate allocation to demonstrate future funding needs for Los Alamos County and Atomic City Transit and to ensure full reimbursement when federal awards are made.