NextStop Blog

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced that Metro Transit has been awarded nearly $10.4 million through its Low-and-No-Emission (Low-No) Vehicle program. The funding will enhance MetroBus service and improve air quality in the bi-state region through the purchase of new, American-made hybrid diesel-electric buses.

The $10.4 million grant award was part of approximately $1.5 billion in federal funding announced on July 9 by the FTA, through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to support 117 public transportation projects in 47 states. Over the last three years, the FTA has provided nearly $5 billion to public transit agencies throughout the country to replace and modernize their bus fleets. In 2022, Metro Transit was awarded two federal grants from the FTA for $4.1 million and $5.4 million to expand its battery-electric bus program.

“We are fortunate to have great partners in the Federal Transit Administration whose support and guidance have helped bring millions in federal dollars to the bi-state area to improve public transportation in our communities,” said Taulby Roach, President & CEO of Bi-State Development, which operates Metro Transit. “This new funding will allow us to upgrade our vehicles to deliver cleaner air and environmental benefits where we operate in the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County. It will also enhance the transit experience for our customers with new state-of-the-art buses featuring the latest technology and amenities.”

Metro Transit will use the federal funding to expand its battery-electric bus fleet through the purchase of approximately 10 new, hybrid diesel-electric buses from GILLIG, an American bus manufacturer. Metro Transit currently owns 24 battery-electric buses that are in service in the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County, with 14 60-foot battery-electric buses and 10 40-foot battery-electric buses. The new hybrid diesel-electric buses have dual propulsion capabilities, allowing them to operate using electricity or fuel, and they can recharge using their diesel engines.