Miami-Dade County Public Schools secures $8M grant for electric buses
Key Points(5)
- Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) is taking another big step towards greener transportation.
- The district has been awarded an $8.8 million Clean School Bus grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- This substantial funding will enable M-DCPS to add up to 25 electric buses to its fleet, aiming to have approximately 125 electric buses on the road by 2026.
- The grant isn't just for the buses themselves.
- It also covers the installation of charging stations and the training of lead mechanics through the Bluebird Technician Academy.
Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) is taking another big step towards greener transportation. The district has been awarded an $8.8 million Clean School Bus grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
This substantial funding will enable M-DCPS to add up to 25 electric buses to its fleet, aiming to have approximately 125 electric buses on the road by 2026.
The grant isn't just for the buses themselves. It also covers the installation of charging stations and the training of lead mechanics through the Bluebird Technician Academy. This comprehensive approach ensures the district is well-prepared to maintain and operate the new buses effectively.
As part of the grant agreement, M-DCPS will provide the EPA with up to 25 diesel buses, matching the number of new electric buses funded. This swap will significantly reduce the district’s reliance on diesel, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment for students and the community.
Not the first M-DCPS grant
This isn't the first time M-DCPS has benefited from the Clean School Bus grant. In January, the district received $19.7 million to purchase 50 electric buses. Additionally, through the Florida Volkswagen Mitigation Settlement Trust, M-DCPS rolled out 35 buses this past school year and plans to have 15 more on the road by next year.
With the addition of the 25 new buses from the latest grant, M-DCPS is set to achieve its goal of having up to 125 electric buses in operation by 2026. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the district's ongoing commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions.
Reports are that the new electric buses will incorporate advanced safety features, such as a child reminder button and a cooling mechanism for the electric batteries, ensuring the wellbeing of all on board.
Read more: Miami-Dade rolls out 20 electric school buses for upcoming academic year
