Detroit has been awarded a significant $30.8 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration to purchase clean energy buses, signaling a major step towards expanding its zero emission fleet. Veronica Vanterpool, acting FTA administrator, announced this allocation as part of a broader plan that involves distributing $1.5 billion for 117 grants across 47 states. The city will also receive an additional $5 million in matching funds from the Michigan Department of Transportation to support its transition to cleaner coaches. The initiative not only includes acquiring new buses but also focuses on training staff, installing charging infrastructure, and improving overall service reliability. The investment in hydrogen buses, priced at around $1.2 million each, is highlighted as a pivotal move towards a cleaner transportation system. Mayor Mike Duggan emphasized the importance of this program, especially considering the challenges faced during the pandemic, which led to a third of the city's bus fleet being out of operation for repairs. Despite these setbacks, the city has hired 150 new bus operators and aims to continue its modernization efforts. Furthermore, the grant is viewed as a significant boost for Detroit's air quality, a long-standing concern for the city. The introduction of hydrogen buses is part of a broader strategy to create a clean hydrogen economy in the region, aligning with Governor Gretchen Whitmer's vision for sustainable transportation. The initiative has been well-received by various stakeholders, including Zach Kolodin, the Chief Infrastructure Officer for Governor Whitmer, who sees it as an opportunity to transform communities and prioritize clean energy solutions. The positive sentiments are echoed by Schetrone Collier, president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 26, who views the grant as a lifeline for improving service quality and providing a better experience for operators and passengers alike.