TriMet Receives Federal Grant to Enhance Hydrogen Bus Fleet and 82nd Avenue Bus Line
Key Ideas
  • TriMet secures a $39 million federal grant to upgrade its bus fleet with hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles and improve the 82nd Avenue bus line.
  • The grant, one of the largest nationwide, aims to replace old diesel buses, purchase a portable fueling station, and facilitate facility improvements for hydrogen vehicles.
  • The investment aligns with TriMet's goal of a 100% zero-emissions bus fleet by 2040 and contributes to the revitalization of 82nd Avenue in Portland.
  • Hydrogen fuel-cell technology offers advantages like faster refueling, longer range, and greater efficiency, positioning it as a promising solution for public transportation.
TriMet, the public transportation agency in Portland, is set to enhance its bus fleet and the 82nd Avenue bus line with the help of a $39 million federal grant from the Federal Transit Administration's Low or No Emission Grant Program. This grant is part of a substantial $1.5 billion allocation, with TriMet's award being one of the largest. The funding will be used to replace aging diesel buses, acquire a portable fueling station, improve facilities for hydrogen vehicles, and make investments along the 82nd Avenue corridor. The upgrade aligns with TriMet's ambitious goal of transitioning to a 100% zero-emissions bus fleet by 2040. The move towards hydrogen fuel-cell technology offers numerous benefits over battery electric models, including quicker refueling times, extended range and run time, higher efficiency, and better temperature resilience. Moreover, the investment in the 82nd Avenue bus line in Portland is not solely aimed at reducing emissions but also at addressing service delays and improving overall transit experience. The planned 'FX' bus line is expected to provide faster and more efficient service, featuring upgrades to stops along the corridor. This development is part of a broader vision to transform 82nd Avenue into a thriving, low-carbon corridor. The federal grant signifies a significant step towards realizing these goals, with support from the Biden administration and local officials. The investment is seen as a unifying force for the community, emphasizing a sustainable and equitable approach to urban development. With construction planned for 2027-2028 and an expected opening in 2030, the improved 82nd Avenue bus line is poised to bring positive changes to public transportation in Portland.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2024 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.