The Delta Area Transit Authority (DATA) is implementing various changes and improvements this year. In this photo, Ziad Abouali, an international student from Egypt attending Bay College, boarded a DATA bus to receive a free ride to a grocery store last fall. (Sophie Vogelmann | Daily Press)

ESCANABA – For many Delta County residents who rely on public transit to reach work, school and medical appointments, the new year will mark meaningful changes at the Delta Area Transit Authority (DATA).

As DATA prepares for the year ahead, community planning and collaboration are central to its efforts.

This winter and into the spring, DATA will participate in a Delta County Transportation Needs Assessment, a countywide study aimed at identifying and evaluating both current and future transportation needs.

The data-driven assessment will help guide the planning and implementation of transportation solutions that support residents, businesses, healthcare access, workforce mobility, and education throughout Delta County.

Amy Fudala, mobility manager at Delta Area Transit and Schoolcraft County Transit authorities, is looking forward to using the assessment to improve services and expand access across the county.

“Currently, DATA does not serve all areas of Delta County, and we face challenges related to service hours, days of operation and service areas,” said Fudala. “I’m eager for the upcoming needs assessment, which will be an important tool in identifying gaps and opportunities to expand service in our seven non-millage areas, with Wells being the largest.”

In addition to the assessment, DATA will continue to focus on its Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) services, which were an area of emphasis in 2025.

“I’m looking forward to expanding our (NEMT) services and strengthening partnerships to help remove transportation barriers for people who need medical care but lack safe and reliable transportation,” said Fudala.

DATA’s NEMT program helps individuals safely and reliably get to medical appointments, wellness activities, and other essential destinations. Passengers do not need to live in Delta County to use the service and are encouraged to contact their insurance provider to confirm coverage, which may help reduce out-of-pocket costs.

“Access to care starts with access to a ride, and these efforts will help us better support individuals across our communities.”

As part of its commitment to sustainability, DATA will also replace eight vehicles with propane-powered and propane dual-fuel buses.

According to a news release, propane was selected for several key reasons, including its environmental benefits, cleaner emissions, lower fuel costs and operational efficiencies.

The ability to purchase propane in bulk, fuel vehicles onsite and extend travel range through dual-fuel systems will help DATA continue providing dependable service while reducing environmental impact.

In the past, DATA operated a mostly diesel-powered fleet, which was cost-effective and fuel-efficient. The company transitioned to gasoline-powered vehicles after General Motors and Ford discontinued diesel production in 2010, as stated in a news release.

As part of its long-term sustainability planning, the agency has monitored advancements in alternative fuels and infrastructure, leading to its latest propane upgrades.

DATA was established in 1989 under Public Act 196 and has since provided safe, reliable and affordable public transportation across Delta County and surrounding areas. In 1997, the company expanded operations by moving maintenance and customer service into a 12,500-square-foot Inter-Modal Transportation Facility.

For more than three decades, DATA has continually adapted to changing technology, fuel options and community needs while maintaining its mission to improve mobility and quality of life for residents and businesses.

DATA continues to be committed to partnering with local businesses, healthcare providers, schools and community organizations to break down transportation barriers for residents.

Organizations interested in partnering with DATA or learning more about its services can contact Fudala at 906-786-1187 ext. 3 or mobility@databus.org. More information is available at www.databus.org.

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Sophie Vogelmann can be reached at 906-786-2021 or svogelmann@dailypress.net.