Council approves $203,000 FHWA carbon‑reduction funds to buy hybrid microtransit vans for Greater Idaho Falls Transit

The Idaho Falls City Council on Feb. 13 approved a funding agreement to accept $203,000 in FHWA carbon‑reduction program funds to support purchase of at least four hybrid drivetrain microtransit vans for Greater Idaho Falls Transit (GIFT).

Public Works Director (and transit presenter) said the vans would be owned by the city and provided to the transit contractor to operate; the funding is reimbursement‑based and requires a local match of 7.34% (just under $15,000). Staff estimated a per‑van cost in the bid planning of roughly $43,500, and said the city may be able to purchase five vehicles if bids align favorably.

Councilors asked whether GIFT had funds available to front the purchase pending reimbursement; staff and the GIFT liaison confirmed sufficient funds exist to make the purchases and then be reimbursed. The council voted to approve the funding agreement and authorized the mayor to sign the necessary documents.

Staff said the hybrid drivetrain option (gas plus electric assist) was selected based on current vehicle availability and local operational needs (short‑trip urban duty cycles recover charge through regenerative braking). The council recorded the motion and approved it by roll call.