WTA Receives $2.3M Federal Grant to Purchase Electric Buses

Whatcom Transportation Authority was recently awarded a $2.3 million Low- or No-Emission (Low-No) grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration. The grant will provide 85 percent of the cost to purchase two electric buses and charging facilities. The buses are expected to enter service in 2020. These will be the first electric buses in WTA’s fleet.

According to an FTA press release, the Low-No program funds the deployment of transit buses and infrastructure that use advanced propulsion technologies. Whatcom Transportation Authority is one of 52 agencies nationwide to receive funding through the Low-No program, as the result of a competitive grant process.

Compared to a standard diesel bus, one electric bus will reduce WTA’s carbon dioxide emissions by 1,100 tons throughout its 12-year service life. It will also reduce fuel use by 100,000 gallons, reduce particulate matter emissions by 30 pounds, and reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by 674 pounds.

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene, Congressman Rick Larsen, and Senator Patty Murray worked with WTA in support of their grant application. Senator Murray said, “This major investment is welcome news for the Whatcom County community as it works to lower vehicle emissions while keeping pace with the increasing demand for access to safe, dependable public transportation.  I will continue fighting for critical investments that support reliable and sustainable transit systems for families and commuters across Washington state.”

WTA General Manager Pete Stark said, “WTA has been incorporating alternative fuels and vehicle technologies for the past several years. We’ve gained valuable experience along the way.  The Low-No grant funding presents an exciting opportunity to take the next step towards fleet electrification.”