Lawton Transit Trust approves FY26 state contract, agrees to buy seven hybrid buses

The Lawton Transit Trust unanimously authorized the chairperson to sign the state Public Transit Revolving Fund contract for fiscal year 2026 and approved the purchase of seven hybrid electric buses funded by a Federal Transit Administration Section 5339 Low‑No grant.

City staff told trustees the Low‑No award exceeds $6 million and that the local match — about $1.4 million to $1.5 million — will be covered from LATS program income, fare revenue, advertising and other program funds rather than the city’s general fund. "This will not cost the city per se anything," staff said when presenting the package.

Trustees discussed delivery timing. Staff warned the bus manufacturer Gillig is fulfilling large orders — including vehicles for the FIFA World Cup — and that Lawton’s order could be delayed. "Don't hold your breath," the presenter said when asked when the buses would arrive; staff estimated deliveries could be in 2027 depending on production schedules.

The board voted 7‑0 to approve both the contract authorization and the bus procurement. Moving forward, staff will finalize contract execution and proceed with the procurement steps required by the FTA grant terms.

Why it matters: the buses and the grant will expand Lawton’s fleet and fleet modernization without a direct city general‑fund hit, but long lead times mean the new vehicles may not enter service for months or years. The transit purchase also commits the city to the local match and associated program‑income budgeting.

What's next: staff will complete contracting paperwork with ODOT and the FTA grant administrator and place the manufacturing order; council members will monitor delivery timing and the local fund match.