Officials with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration announced at the end of June that it will be awarding nearly $1.7 billion for more than 100 projects spread throughout the country. The federal agency announced funding from President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will put “better, cleaner American-made buses on roads across the country.”
One of these entities receiving funding is the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County.
More than $40 million will be awarded to METRO for the following projects as part of its transition to a zero-emission fleet, according to METRO and the FTA:
- Buying 40 renewable natural gas-fueled buses
- Retrofitting maintenance bays at Hiram Clarke station in southwest Houston
- Building a renewable natural gas refueling facility at Hiram Clarke station in southwest Houston
- Workforce development training
Monica Russo serves as METRO’s public information officer. Russo spoke with Community Impact to discuss more on the project.
How will the new federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation support METRO’s sustainability initiative including the Climate Action Plan?
The new buses will be crucial to METRO's Climate Action Plan. By incorporating these vehicles into our fleet, we will expand our capacity for sustainable transportation and lessen our environmental impact through reduced emissions. Our ultimate goal is to purchase only zero-emission buses by 2030, and this investment is a significant step towards achieving that objective.
Federal funding will also help METRO reach its sustainability goals by including solar power at its operating facilities. This investment will help reduce our carbon footprint and decrease energy consumption, contributing to a greener future.
Tell us a little bit more about the natural gas-fueled buses that will be purchased with the funding.
Buses will be American-made. More detailed information about them will be available once the procurement process is complete.
What will the new fleet and updates to fueling stations mean for everyday bus riders?
Investing in cleaner transit vehicles offers a range of benefits for both commuters and our community at large. Notably, it leads to reduced emissions and cleaner air, benefiting everyone, not just transit passengers.
Compressed natural-gas buses are also highly durable and require minimal refueling time, enhancing reliability for riders and reducing METRO's operating expenses. By making this investment, we can create a more sustainable and enjoyable commuting experience for all.
