PHX Reporter

The Federal Transit Administration has awarded a $16.3 million grant to the Phoenix Public Transit Department to be used on low and zero-emissions buses and the accompanying infrastructure.

According to a news release from the city, the grant was made possible by President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and under the highly competitive Low-No Emission and Buses and Bus Facilities grant programs. The goal of the programs is to support the transition of the nation’s bus fleet to energy efficient, cleaner vehicles, the release added.

"Phoenix is a leader in fighting climate change, and we are on our way to becoming the world's most sustainable desert city," Phoenix mayor Kate Gallego said in the release. “This grant is adding to that success, increasing our ability to purchase clean vehicles and invest in needed infrastructure.”

In addition to a fleet of electric and hydrogen fuel-cell buses, the funding will go toward supporting infrastructure and workforce deployment.

“Phoenix is leading the way to an even greener fleet that is not only sustainable, but also equitable for the riders who depend on public transit across greater Phoenix,” Vice Mayor Laura Pastor said in the release.

City Council member Debra Stark, Chairperson of the Transportation, Infrastructure and Planning Subcommittee, expressed excitement for what the grant means to the future of the city.

“This grant gives Phoenix the opportunity to become a leader in green public transit, including developing the technology, infrastructure and training to support these advancements,” she said.

Councilwoman Yassamin Ansari echoed Stark’s sentiment.

“As the chair of the Mayor’s Electric Vehicle Ad Hoc Committee and a vocal clean transit advocate, we have worked to take advantage of every opportunity to fast-track our mission of transitioning our vehicles to low and zero emission,” Ansari said. “This is the best way to tackle harmful air pollution and to ensure we can build a sustainable future for all, especially those who rely on public transit.”

Phoenix Public Transit Director Jesús Sapien added that a more efficient transit department means a more efficient, cost-effective city.

“Equipping our fleet with zero-and low-emission buses allows us to continue efforts in providing our riders an efficient and green way to get where they need to go,” Sapien added. “We know public transit is a critical component of our community, and this grant further amplifies our ability to modernize our public transportation infrastructure.”