Blue Bird, a historic bus manufacturer in Georgia, is set to receive an $80 million grant from the federal government to convert a factory in Fort Valley for the production of electric school buses. This initiative is part of a larger $1.7 billion effort to repurpose closed auto factories across the United States for the manufacturing of electric vehicles or their parts, including those fueled by electricity, hydrogen, or hybrid systems. The aim is to reduce reliance on fossil fuels that contribute to climate change. The grant, announced by the U.S. Department of Energy, is intended to create job opportunities in communities affected by factory closures. Blue Bird is the sole recipient in Georgia and is expected to create 428 manufacturing jobs and 250 construction jobs. The company plans to use part of the funding for education and training programs for current employees and high school students in the area. Sen. Rev. Raphael Warnock highlighted the significance of the investment in promoting clean energy and creating new job opportunities. The support is part of the Inflation Reduction Act passed by Congress in 2022, demonstrating bipartisan cooperation towards environmental sustainability and community growth. Blue Bird, known for its innovation in electric school buses, has previously sold over 2,000 electric buses. The funding will enable the company to retain and expand its workforce and transition towards emerging clean-energy technologies. The grant is seen as a positive development for the future of clean transportation and the economy, with a focus on creating high-paying and skilled jobs in the manufacturing sector.