U.S.
Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced that
a $10,315,033 U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) grant has been
allocated to the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority. The grant
will be used to purchase hybrid buses in Buffalo to improve the city’s
public transit and reduce its environmental impact.
“This
is an opportunity to save bus riders money, and help the environment
all at the same time,” Schumer said. “Fuel efficient, hybrid buses
will keep fares affordable for commuters and passengers and reduce
harmful fuel emissions to reduce our reliance on foreign fossil fuels.”
“This
is a great investment for Western New York,” Senator Gillibrand said.
“Investing in hybrid buses will help get more cars off the road, cut
emissions and improve the environment, while supporting job creation
and helping to rebuild our economy. I will continue working with
Senator Schumer and the entire Congressional Delegation to make sure
New York gets its fair share from the federal government.”
NFTA
Metro currently carries about 94,000 people a day and operates a fleet
of over 330 busses. The NFTA estimates a 25% to 30% reduction in fuel
based on the efficiencies of the hybrid. Savings are also realized from
decreased maintenance costs associated with the new hybrid buses.
The
Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration awards
capital investment grants for bus and bus related facilities. This
program finances the acquisition of buses, ancillary equipment, and the
construction of bus facilities, like maintenance facilities, garages,
storage areas and bus terminals. The funding appropriated for the bus
capital program is fully allocated to projects designated by Congress.