U.S. Government Awards $1.5 Billion in Grants to Improve Public Transportation Across 47 States
Key Ideas
- The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has allocated $1.5 billion to support 117 projects in 47 states, aiming to enhance public transportation infrastructure and reduce air pollution.
- About 80% of the funded buses will run on zero- or low-emission technology, aligning with the country's goal of achieving zero emissions by 2050.
- The grants aim to benefit marginalized communities through President Joe Biden's Justice40 Initiative, ensuring that 40% of the benefits of investments flow to disadvantaged areas.
- The funding will help transit agencies replace old buses with modern, zero-emission vehicles, contributing to job creation, environmental sustainability, and improved transit service reliability.
The U.S. Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has announced the allocation of $1.5 billion in grants to support 117 projects across 47 states, with a focus on enhancing public transportation services. The funding, sourced from the Low- or No-Emission Program and the Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program, aims to assist transit agencies in replacing aging buses, reducing air pollution, creating job opportunities, and improving the overall reliability of transit systems. U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg highlighted the impact of the grants, emphasizing the modernization of buses to zero- or low-emission technology, manufactured by American workers.
The Biden-Harris Administration's initiative aligns with the goal of achieving zero emissions by 2050, with approximately 80% of the buses funded expected to operate using clean energy technology. The grants also support President Joe Biden's Justice40 Initiative, ensuring that a significant portion of the benefits reach disadvantaged communities disproportionately affected by pollution and underinvestment. By prioritizing awards that strengthen U.S. bus manufacturing and streamline the delivery of new vehicles, the FTA aims to accelerate the transition towards cleaner transportation options.
Several projects have been identified for funding, including initiatives in New Jersey, Sacramento, Colorado, and Orlando. These projects range from building charging facilities for battery-electric buses to procuring hydrogen fuel cell buses and transitioning to compressed natural gas vehicles. The grants aim to promote environmental justice, increase service efficiency, and support the shift towards zero-emission fleets in various regions. Overall, the funding will not only improve the quality of public transportation but also contribute to job creation, sustainable practices, and community development across the country.
Topics
Public Transit
Environmental Impact
Clean Energy
Job Creation
Infrastructure Investment
Manufacturing Support
Public Transportation
Community Development
Grants Program
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