U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and Congressman Joseph Morelle announced that the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) has been awarded an $18.1 million grant from the U.S Department of Transportation's Buses & Bus Facilities Grant Program. This funding will be used to upgrade RGRTA's hydrogen fuel cell electric bus facility and acquire three hydrogen fuel cell electric buses. The initiative is part of a broader effort to combat air pollution from diesel buses and advance towards a zero-emission bus fleet by 2040. The grant is seen as a pivotal step in promoting clean energy technologies in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region. The new hydrogen fuel cell buses are expected to offer zero-emission transportation while maintaining performance levels comparable to diesel buses. With refueling times of 6-12 minutes and a driving range of 250-300 miles, hydrogen fuel cell buses present a promising alternative for sustainable public transportation. The federal funding not only supports RGRTA's transition to cleaner transportation options but also underscores the region's commitment to environmental sustainability and economic development. By enhancing infrastructure and investing in zero-emission vehicles, RGRTA aims to provide Rochester residents with a smoother and cleaner commuting experience. The grant reflects a broader trend of federal support for public transit initiatives, with various lawmakers actively securing funding to bolster transportation infrastructure and promote green energy solutions.