MPO unanimously adds $50,000 for transit efficiency study to FY2026 work program

The Charlotte County–Punta Gorda Metropolitan Planning Organization on Dec. 15 voted unanimously to amend its FY2026 Unified Planning Work Program to add $50,000 in Federal Transit Administration 5307 operating funds for a transit efficiency study.

Lakshmi Goram of Charlotte County’s MPO staff told the board the purpose of the study "is to evaluate transit operations, identify opportunities for new and improved services, and analyze the use of existing, high capacity vehicles to enhance long term efficiency and sustainability." The board opened a public meeting portion but heard no speakers before taking action.

The amendment was described by staff as a procedural requirement to incorporate additional funding that Charlotte County Transit received. The board approved the change by roll call with all members voting in favor.

The study is intended to help the transit agency determine whether changes to service, vehicle types or operations would increase ridership and system efficiency. Staff said more detail, including project scope and schedule, will be provided to the board as the study progresses.