Distributed Energy Resources, GHG Emissions, Sourcing Renewables  -  July 17, 2024

Detroit, Ann Arbor Receive Funding for Low-Emission Buses

The Michigan Infrastructure Office (MIO) announced multiple transit authorities have received a total of $72.5 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration (FTA), including Detroit and Ann Arbor.

These investments are funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and will help transit agencies replace aging buses, build bus facilities, support zero-emission buses and improve the reliability of transit systems. 

The FTA's Low- or No-Emission Program helps transit agencies buy or lease U.S.-built zero-emission and low-emission transit buses along with charging equipment and supporting facilities. FTA's Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program supports transit agencies in buying and rehabilitating buses and vans and building bus facilities.

 "We are thrilled to announce this significant federal investment in Michigan's transit infrastructure. Thanks to the Biden Administration, these funds will bring substantial improvements to our transit systems,” said Zachary Kolodin, chief infrastructure officer and director of the Michigan Infrastructure Office, in a statement. “By replacing aging buses, building new facilities and supporting zero-emission vehicles, we are not only reducing air pollution but also advancing good-paying jobs, training current employees in clean infrastructure and ensuring reliable transportation for our communities. This funding is a testament to Michigan's leadership in clean energy and a crucial step towards a more sustainable future for our state."

The City of Detroit is receiving $30.8 million to upgrade fueling equipment and buses. The hydrogen fueling equipment includes storage tanks, fuel pumps, compressors and refrigeration. The funding also provides Detroit with four hydrogen buses and even more diesel and electric hybrid buses. 

The Ride, part of the Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (AAATA,) will receive $25 million from the Low-or No-Emission Program. The $25 million in funding will include two hydrogen buses, a hydrogen fueling station and 13 diesel electric buses. This project will improve operations, reduce energy consumption and enable AAATA to move toward a zero-emission fleet.

The Harbor Transit Multi-Modal Transportation System in Grand Haven will receive $16,252,400 for the design and construction of a multi-modal system operations center to accommodate the transition to a zero-emission fleet. The center will include fueling and charging equipment, vehicle maintenance infrastructure, electric vans and charging stations. The new facility will also accommodate administration and workforce training facilities for regional transit providers.