Grand Forest Public Schools Approves Bus Lease Agreement with Horizon Bank for New Route

Grand Forks Public Schools has taken a significant step towards enhancing student transportation by approving a three-year lease agreement for a new bus during the GFPS School Board Meeting on July 29, 2025. This decision aims to facilitate a dedicated bus route from Red River Central to the Career Impact Academy, addressing the transportation needs of students and ensuring access to educational opportunities.

The board discussed the logistics of the bus route, which will operate for three blocks of the day. Due to challenges with turnaround times, a hybrid approach was adopted, involving a partnership with Valley to provide a shuttle service during the middle section of the day. This strategy is expected to be the most cost-effective solution for the district.

The lease agreement, valued at approximately $224,747 over three years, includes an option to purchase the bus at the end of the lease term. This cautious approach allows the district to assess the ongoing need for the bus service before committing to a full purchase. The funding for this initiative will be partially supported by a community benefit grant of $242,140,000 from the New Market Tax Credit program, which aims to invest in underserved areas.

Board members expressed confidence that the grant would cover the operational costs of the bus, including the driver’s salary, benefits, lease payments, insurance, and fuel for at least the first two years. This financial backing is anticipated to make the initiative cash flow neutral for the district.

In addition to the bus service, the board highlighted the importance of having backup drivers available to ensure continuity in operations. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to approve the lease agreement, marking a pivotal moment for the district's transportation capabilities.

Looking ahead, the board plans to address school boundary attendance policies in an upcoming work session, further demonstrating their commitment to improving educational access and resources for the community. The successful implementation of this bus route is expected to enhance student participation in activities and provide greater flexibility for school-related transportation needs.