EMBARK unveiled its new clean natural gas (CNG) facility along with the state’s first electric fixed-route bus and charging stations that will serve Central Oklahoma residents.
EMBARK’s investment into alternative-fueled vehicles and operating facilities began in 2016 when a plan was approved by the Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority (COTPA) – EMBARK’s governing body – to replace its entire bus fleet with compressed natural gas (CNG) or electric buses by 2025. Since then, EMBARK has added 21 CNG-fueled buses to its fleet: six through a Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) grant, plans for eight more through a federal sustainability grant from the FTA, and has been awarded five additional grants for sustainability efforts.
“With CNG driving our sustainability efforts in transit, it’s crucial our infrastructure also supports the use of alternative fuels. COTPA’s bold vision guides our efforts of offering transportation services that help improve our community’s air quality,” said Jason Ferbrache, EMBARK administrator.
Currently, EMBARK’s fleet includes two hybrid electric buses, 21 CNG buses, three CNG paratransit vehicles, seven modern electric streetcars and a bike-share fleet. EMBARK’s upcoming Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system launching in late 2023 also plans to use CNG vehicles. The electric bus unveiled is Oklahoma’s first fully electric fixed-route bus to be used in public transit.
“An electric bus vehicle offers a glimpse into the future of public transit as we know it,” said Mark Nestlen, CEO of Oklahoma Transit Association. “When organizations take steps toward environmental sustainability, they are creating a better world for those they serve.”
The electric bus purchase was made possible through a grant from the FTA’s Low- or No-Emission Grant Program awarded in 2017 ($797,550) and 2020 ($711,255).
EMBARK celebrated its Ozone Awareness Program April 23. Residents were encouraged to use public transit April 23 to break the routine of driving themselves to work and use public transportation to help reduce congestion. The annual program makes fixed-route bus, OKC Streetcar and zone 1 Paratransit fare-free on the third Friday of each month, April through September.
