The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) Board of Directors based in Houston is touting the recent adoption of its initial Sustainability Vision Statement, which officials said includes environmental and investment initiatives.
Key components of the endeavor, per authorities, is the adoption of a 100 percent zero-emission bus replacement goal by 2030 and agency-wide Climate Action Plan development.
The agency has proceeded with efforts to purchase 20 full-size electric buses and 10 paratransit vans, officials indicated, in addition to applying for federal grants via the FTA Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant Program to address the $25 million purchase of electric vehicles and supporting infrastructure. The panel is also considering the implementation of hydrogen fuel cell technology, according to officials.
Authorities noted METRO has joined other public transit organizations throughout the nation in supporting a goal of achieving a 50 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2005 levels by 2030.
The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) extended kudos to METRO regarding the
Sustainability Vision Statement adoption.
“This commitment is a historic win for Houston’s health and climate,” EDF Texas Political Director Colin Leyden noted via a statement. “Houstonians deserve a modern, clean transit fleet that cuts pollution and saves money and with an all-electric fleet Houston METRO can deliver. Mayor Turner and the METRO board are to be commended for driving this progress and delivering meaningful climate action for the Houston region.”