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The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) opened the application period for approximately $1.5. billion in grants on Thursday.
Funding will be available through two programs.
The Low- or No-Emission Program helps transit agencies buy or lease U.S.-built zero-emission and low-emission transit buses, charging equipment and supporting facilities. During fiscal year 2024, $1.1 billion will be awarded.
The Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program helps transit agencies buy and rehabilitate buses and vans or build bus facilities. A total of $390 million will be awarded.
Transit agencies are encouraged to consider strategies to avoid customization because standardized bus models shorten manufacturing timelines.
The FTA also is encouraging improvements in bus vehicle delivery to get buses on the road faster.
“Buying new buses, including many vehicles that use new technology to cut carbon pollution, will promote cleaner, faster, and safer rides as we move toward a better future,” FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez said. “FTA is also providing solutions to reduce bus costs, shorten production timelines, and maintain domestic manufacturing capacity as transit agencies procure buses.”
The White House Roundtable on Clean Bus Manufacturing was held on Wednesday. FTA representatives, other government representatives and industry leaders discussed the nation’s progress in transitioning to zero-emission buses.