AGENDA TITLE:
title
Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute Certifications and Assurances and Authorized Agent Forms for the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) For the Following Project: Free Student Fares (PW)
end
MEETING DATE:
October 7, 2026
PREPARED BY:
Sean Nathan, Deputy Public Works Director
recommendation
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Adopt a Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Execute Certifications and Assurances and Authorized Agent Forms for the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) for the Following Project: Free Student Fare Program.
body
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) is a State-funded program established in 2014 as part of California’s Transit, Affordable Housing, and Sustainable Communities Program. LCTOP provides operating and capital funding to transit agencies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve mobility, with a priority on serving disadvantaged communities. The program is administered by the California Department of Transportation in coordination with the California Air Resources Board and the State Controller’s Office.
LCTOP funds are distributed based on prior State Transit Assistance (STA) allocations, with 50 percent provided directly to eligible transit operators and 50 percent distributed through regional agencies, including the San Joaquin Council of Governments (SJCOG).
For FY 2025/26, the City has applied for Cycle A funding totaling $90,060, consisting of $10,349 in direct allocation and $79,711 from SJCOG. Cycle B funding totals $57,701, consisting of $6,631 in direct allocation and $51,070 from SJCOG. The combined total LCTOP funding for FY 2025/26 is $147,761.
The Transit Division proposes to use these funds to continue the Free Student Fare Program, which provides fare-free transit to K-12 students on the Lodi GrapeLine system on all fixed routes. Since its launch in 2019, student ridership has grown significantly, reaching 97,539 trips in 2025. This funding is expected to support the program through November 2028.
The program improves safety, health, and equity by providing reliable transportation for students, reducing exposure to traffic and unsafe conditions, and supporting school attendance. Families benefit from reduced transportation costs, while older students gain access to employment. By replacing an estimated 136-271 daily vehicle trips, the program helps reduce congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Integration with the City’s bike network and transit system supports active transportation and first/last-mile connectivity.
In the long term, the program fosters familiarity with public transit, encouraging lifelong transit use and supporting sustained reductions in vehicle miles traveled and emissions.
To receive LCTOP funding, the City must submit the following documents for Council approval:
1.Authorized Agent Form designating the City Manager (or designee)
2.Certifications and Assurances
3.Project Allocation Request identifying Lodi as Lead Agency and SJCOG as Contributing Sponsor
4.Resolution approving all required submittals
FISCAL IMPACT:
The City will receive $147,761 in LCTOP funds to support the Free Student Fare Program. There is no local match requirement and no impact to the General Fund. Any interest earned must be applied to the project in accordance with LCTOP requirements.
Appropriations are included in the Fiscal Year 2026/27 Budget:
60454108.72499 - Expense
60400000.56421 - Revenue
FUNDING AVAILABLE:
This item does not require any City funding.