Honda, Eshoo & Lofgren Announce $2.46 Million for Zero-Emission Transit
SANTA CLARA, CA – (RealEstateRama) — Nearly $2.5 million in federal funding was awarded to Santa Clara Valley Transit Authority (VTA) to purchase electric zero-emissions buses and related infrastructure. The federal grant was announced today by U.S. Reps. Mike Honda (D-Silicon Valley), Anna G. Eshoo (D-Palo Alto) and Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose).
The grant of $2,458,305 – competitively awarded under the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Low or No Emission Bus and Bus Facilities program – will be used to purchase battery electric zero-emission buses and fast-charging stations, upgrade a maintenance facility to service electric buses, and provide workforce development on new technology buses. The project represents smart, strategic integrated investments to help reduce carbon pollution and strengthen the economy while maximizing returns on public investments.
In a letter supporting VTA’s grant application this June, Honda, Eshoo and Lofgren wrote that the “funding will provide an ideal opportunity for the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to highlight clean and energy-efficient, American-made, electric-powered transit busses making an impact.”
“This is another example of how effective leadership at the federal level can support innovative efforts locally to promote the use of clean, green transportation options that will reduce traffic on our roadways,” said Honda. “This is an important triumph for our region and for our environment.”
“It is VTA’s role to pursue the most forward-thinking mobility solutions on the market to help us achieve our innovation and sustainability goals for our communities,” said Nuria Fernandez, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority General Manager and CEO. “Integrating zero emission buses into our system is a top priority as we continue to redefine transit service in Silicon Valley, the most emblematic innovation hub in the world.”
“Particular thanks to Congressman Mike Honda, whose leadership position on the House Appropriations Committee carries special weight,” said Lofgren.
The electric buses will provide free public transportation connections between VTA’s Metro Light Rail Station in San Jose, Mineta Airport, and the Caltrain Commuter Rail Station in Santa Clara.
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Contact: Peter Whippy (2022253072)
