ITHACA, N.Y. (APNS) — Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) has secured $1.2 million in federal funding to upgrade its fleet with eco-friendly vehicles.
The Federal Transit Administration grant will allow the local transit authority to acquire two diesel-electric hybrid buses, replacing older diesel models. TCAT expects the new vehicles to be operational within approximately 12 months.
Matthew Rosenbloom-Jones, TCAT’s general manager, emphasized the importance of the funding for maintaining a modern fleet. He highlighted the environmental benefits of the upgrade, stating, “These new hybrid buses will significantly reduce both air and noise pollution in our community compared to the older diesel vehicles they’re replacing.”
The grant comes as part of a broader initiative to enhance public transportation infrastructure while addressing environmental concerns in Tompkins County.