Colorado Gets $31.7 Million for 28 Electric Buses

Governor Jared Polis, alongside the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), unveiled a significant investment of $31.7 million in grants aimed at enhancing the state's electric bus fleet. The funding will be allocated to local governments, nonprofits, and service providers, supporting the Colorado Clean Transit Enterprise (CTE) board in acquiring new electric vehicles and improving transit infrastructure. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable transportation options across Colorado. The funding includes $16.7 million sourced from the Volkswagen Settlement Program, which will specifically target electric transit buses and the necessary charging infrastructure. Together, the CTE and Volkswagen programs are set to deliver a total of 28 new electric transit buses to the state, marking a substantial step towards cleaner public transportation. CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew emphasized the dual benefits of this investment, stating that it not only enhances transit services for residents but also contributes to improved air quality. The grants will fund various projects, including $1.5 million for a facility project, $384,000 for infrastructure improvements, and over $13 million for nine vehicle projects under the CTE program. Additionally, the Volkswagen grants will support three vehicle projects with a total of approximately $16.8 million. This initiative reflects Colorado's commitment to high-quality transit solutions that prioritize environmental sustainability, providing residents with cleaner alternatives to personal vehicle use while investing in modern transit technology.