BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — The Transportation Authority of Calhoun County (TACC), also known as Ride Calhoun, will update the service area for its on-demand transportation service, RC FLEX, effective July 1, 2026.
In March 2021, the Calhoun County Coordinated Mobility Pilot, known as BCGo, launched as an on-demand transportation program funded entirely through a grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation. Over the past five years, the pilot provided transportation throughout Calhoun County, helping thousands of residents access destinations that impact their daily lives while demonstrating the need for expanded mobility options across the county.
The grant funding that supported the BCGo pilot has been exhausted. As TACC transitions from a grant-funded pilot program to a locally funded public transportation authority, service must align with the communities that participate in and financially support the authority through local millage funding.
Beginning July 1, RC FLEX service will be available only within and between the participating cities of Albion, Battle Creek, Marshall and Springfield.
Communities that do not support TACC through the local millage will no longer be included in the RC FLEX service area previously covered by the BCGo pilot. TACC remains committed to exploring opportunities to expand service across Calhoun County.
“Over the last five years, BCGo has been more than transportation — it’s been a lifeline for many residents,” said Mallory Avis, executive director of the Transportation Authority of Calhoun County. “We’ve seen how reliable transportation connects people to jobs, health care, education and opportunity. We know these changes will impact some riders, and we don’t take that lightly. Staff will continue working with affected individuals to identify available transportation alternatives and community resources whenever possible."
“The BCGo pilot showed the need for transportation exists across Calhoun County,” continued Avis. “While we must align service with the communities that fund and participate in TACC, our vision hasn’t changed. We’ll keep working with partners and community leaders to expand options and ensure transportation is never a barrier to opportunity.”
TACC recognizes that the service area adjustment may create challenges for riders in areas previously served by the BCGo pilot. Staff will continue working with affected individuals to identify available transportation alternatives and community resources whenever possible.
The updated service boundary may also affect some Marshall Dial-A-Ride riders who live just outside the city of Marshall or use limited out-of-town service. Riders with questions about their specific trips are encouraged to contact Mobility Manager Mary Fortney at 269-966-3474.
About the Transportation Authority of Calhoun County
The Transportation Authority of Calhoun County (TACC), operating as Ride Calhoun, provides public transportation services connecting residents to employment, health care, education, shopping and community resources. TACC is committed to advancing safe, reliable and accessible transportation options that improve quality of life and expand access to opportunity throughout Calhoun County.
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