Metro Bus awarded $14 million FTA grant to power the community forward
We are excited to announce we have been awarded a $14,289,325 grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) a transformative investment that will strengthen the public transportation system and enhance mobility for the communities served.
This funding is earmarked for fleet replacement and will be used exclusively to replace 23 city/large buses that have reached their federal useful life. By modernizing their fleet, Metro Bus will continue to deliver safe, reliable and efficient service while improving overall network performance for our riders.
“This achievement reflects the dedication, expertise and collaborative spirit of our entire team. I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Nene Israel, CFO, Metro Bus; Dave Green, COO, Metro Bus; and Vicki Johnson, Senior Transportation Planner, St. Cloud Area Planning Organization for their exceptional leadership, financial stewardship and operational excellence in securing this critical investment for our community. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected future for all!” Metro Bus CEO Ryan I. Daniel explains.
“This achievement reflects the dedication, expertise and collaborative spirit of our entire team.”
Metro Bus CEO Ryan I. Daniel
In 2014, Metro Bus became the first public transit agency in Minnesota to operate a bus fleet using Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). The CNG Project included the construction of a compressor compound and fueling station, modifications to the maintenance and storage facility, and the purchase of 23 new buses. The project was funded by a $3.35 million US Department of Transportation (USDOT) Clean Fuels grant, a $7.8 million Minnesota Department of Transportation grant and a local revenue bond.
One of Metro Bus’s newest Fixed Route buses advances through an intersection in downtown St. Cloud.
Large buses purchased with FTA grants have a useful life of 12 years after which they must be replaced according to the FTA. The 23 CNG buses originally purchased in 2014 are due to be replaced in the coming year and the FTA grant will allow that to happen on schedule, dependent on manufacturing availability. The entire Metro Bus fleet is currently fueled by CNG thanks to Federal, State and local support for clean fuel vehicles.
