Broward County Transit (BCT) announced a significant boost to local transportation and the environment, thanks to a $25 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). This infusion of federal funds will facilitate the purchase of low emission buses and on-route chargers, aimed at replacing aging diesel vehicles. BCT will also erect a solar canopy at the Northeast Transit Center to generate renewable energy for the fleet and assist in addressing climate change impacts. "We are thrilled to receive this substantial grant from the FTA," said BCT CEO/General Manager Coree Cuff Lonergan. "This funding will allow us to modernize our fleet and support our commitment to sustainability by constructing a solar canopy. These advancements are vital as we work to reduce our carbon footprint and address climate change."
The developments come as part of the government's continued support for bus projects that play a pivotal role in advancing community climate goals. Notably, this award is one of 117 projects across 47 states, collectively supported by approximately $1.5 billion in funding, which intends to enhance public transportation. Over a span of the last three years, FTA has allocated nearly $5 billion to rejuvenate transit buses and foster new technology within the American workforce. An impressive tally of over 3,650 new buses are to be produced by U.S. factories.
Federal initiatives like the Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities and the Low-and No-Emission (Low-No) Vehicle programs back these projects. The Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities program is specifically designed to aid transit agencies in acquiring and rejuvenating buses and vans and in the construction and upgrading of bus facilities. Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the program is set to distribute nearly $2 billion through 2026, with about $390 million available for grants in Fiscal Year 2024.
Similarly, the Low-No Program, fueled by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s generous allotment of $5.6 billion over the next five years - a significant increase from previous funding - will enable transit agencies to invest in U.S.-built low- or no-emission vehicles. For Fiscal Year 2028, an approximate $1.1 billion has been earmarked for grants which can also be utilized for facility and station upgrades as well as purchasing the necessary electricity-powered charging equipment.
For more information on the upcoming green initiatives and the impact of the federal grant on Broward County Transit, visit BCT’s official announcement.
