In an effort to reduce children’s exposure to diesel exhaust, Lake Travis ISD discussed participating in the Texas Clean School Bus program during a March 25 board meeting. The program’s Texas Emissions Reduction Plan works in conjunction with with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to provide grants to entities seeking more fuel efficient buses.

Approximately $6.2 million in funds are available state-wide for school districts and transportation organizations to retrofit or replace diesel-fueled buses, according to information from LTISD.

LTISD will purchase five general education buses for $577,100, with the cost per school bus projected at $115,420, paid for by the 2018 bond program.

The grant would reimburse the district up to $230,625, essentially allowing LTISD to obtain five buses for the price of three. The reimbursed funds will be added back into the 2018 bond program, according to Johnny Hill, assistant superintendent for business, financial and auxiliary services.

“It’s a win, win for our school district at this time,” Hill said, adding that after discussions with the district’s transportation staff an additional five buses was determined adequately serve the district.