CATS receives $3.7M grant to purchase electric buses

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Area Transit System is getting millions of dollars in grant money from the federal government to purchase more efficient buses.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration announced that 41 clean transit projects in 40 states will receive funding through its Low- or No-Emission Grant program. The program funds the purchase or lease of zero-emission and low-emission transit buses and supporting facilities, such as charging stations.

Officials said about $130 million in grant money will be given in total with $3.7 million going to CATS. The money will be used to buy electric buses with dedicated charging stations, provide maintenance and first responder training.

“These grants will help communities nationwide deploy the next generation of bus technology to enhance their transportation system,” Secretary Elaine L. Chao said.

The buses will be more economical, create energy savings and cut pollution.

Vehicular exhaust adds to global warming, pollutes the air and maximizes viruses. According to clean energy experts, children who ride mass transit in cities are affected the most by pollution.

The Greenville Transit Authority in South Carolina is getting $5.2 million from the program.

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