Three Key Facts:
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- The Scranton School District received a $20 million grant from Biden’s clean energy infrastructure program to purchase 25 electric school buses, replacing older diesel models.
- The new buses cut the noxious fumes that students are exposed to and eliminate tailpipe pollution, improving air quality and promoting a healthier community.
- Electric buses provide quieter, safer transportation for students and are expected to lower operational costs due to reduced fuel and maintenance requirements.
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The Scranton School District is driving a cleaner, healthier future with the addition of 25 new electric school buses, thanks to a $20 million grant from the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program. This funding is part of the 2021 infrastructure law, aimed at reducing pollution, improving air quality, and advancing sustainable transportation nationwide. These buses will replace older diesel models, providing quieter rides and significantly cutting air pollution for passengers and others on the road. With zero tailpipe pollution, students, drivers, and the community will benefit from cleaner air and fewer health risks.
A Greener Future for Scranton
The project marks a milestone in Scranton’s commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future. By transitioning to electric buses, the district is reducing the amount of carbon pollution and acquiring a modern fleet of buses that cost less to operate and fix. Dr. Erin Keating, Superintendent of Scranton School District, celebrated the initiative: “The electric buses that are behind us are more than just a mode of transportation; they represent a step forward for a greener Scranton, and they promote the health of our students and the greater community.”
Boosting Safety and Education
The benefits go beyond the environment. Electric buses are quieter and safer, ensuring a better experience for students. These cutting-edge vehicles also create opportunities for students to learn about clean energy technology. School Board President Ty Holmes highlighted the impact: “First and foremost you’re reducing the carbon footprint number one, number two the buses are newer any time you get newer safer equipment to put our children on that are being put on the roads here that’s always a benefit and a tremendous plus.”
Federal Support for Clean Energy
This initiative underscores the Biden Administration’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure and supporting communities in the transition to cleaner energy. Scranton’s new fleet is part of a broader effort, with similar projects taking place across Pennsylvania. The Scranton buses will also support job creation in electric vehicle maintenance and charging infrastructure setup. As Scranton paves the way, other districts are poised to follow suit, leveraging federal programs to drive sustainability and innovation.
