The city is working toward its goal to fully convert its transit fleet to electric buses by 2040.
Chicago’s bus fleet is gaining 22 new electric buses, according to an article in Mass Transit Magazine. The move is part of the Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) effort to replace its fossil fuel-powered buses with an all-electric fleet by 2040.
“On June 16, the Chicago Transit Board authorized the exercising of a contract option for the purchase of additional standard, 40-foot electric buses, valued at $26.2 million. The original contract, which was awarded to Proterra in 2018 following a competitive procurement process, had a base order of 23 standard, electric buses, as well as an option to purchase up to 25 additional electric buses.”
The new buses are funded through “a federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality grant and funds from the Regional Transportation Authority of Northeastern Illinois.”
Electric buses will reduce carbon emissions, provide a smoother ride, and reduce street noise, which can have serious impacts on public health. In addition to buying new buses, converting the fleet to electric will require an overhaul of operational and maintenance infrastructure.
FULL STORY: CTA plans to nearly double all-electric bus fleet
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