Golden Empire Transit in Bakersfield, California, has been awarded a $117 million grant from the Transit & Intercity Rail Capital Program to enhance public transportation services in Kern County. The grant aims to support new routes, zero-emission buses with hydrogen fuel, fueling infrastructures, a transit plaza, and fair collection systems. The company plans to complete these projects by 2029. During a press conference, state and local officials highlighted the significance of this investment in transforming transit services in Bakersfield. The CEO of GET BUS, Chris James, expressed gratitude for the grant, emphasizing the importance of the funding in meeting the mandate for zero-emission buses and expanding service reach to more community members. The grant will enable the introduction of new routes to serve a larger population in Kern County, offering improved accessibility to public transportation. Officials and board members of GET Bus are enthusiastic about the upcoming projects, including the development of hydrogen buses, downtown housing, faster routes, and bike-sharing initiatives. The focus of the initiative is not only on reducing air gas emissions through green technologies but also on ensuring that public transportation remains a reliable mode of commuting for residents. The completion of the project is anticipated by 2029, with a strong commitment to enhancing community infrastructure and sustainability. The community looks forward to the positive impact these developments will have on public transportation services and environmental conservation efforts.