The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recently announced a significant investment of nearly $1.7 billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to enhance transit projects across 46 states and territories. This funding will support the manufacturing of over 1,700 American-built buses, with a particular emphasis on zero-emission models. The allocation of resources aims to bolster the nation's public transportation infrastructure while generating employment opportunities.

 
The infusion of funds is of great importance to landscape architects and city planners who are dedicated to creating sustainable and livable communities. The transition to zero-emission buses would reduce emissions, improving air quality, and mitigates noise pollution, contributing to healthier urban environments.

Among the notable projects selected for funding is the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), which will receive $104 million to convert their buses to be fully electric and procure approximately 100 battery-electric buses. Other recipients, including King County Metro Transit in Seattle, Washington, and the Ohio Department of Transportation, will benefit from funding to purchase battery-electric buses and support workforce training programs.

As landscape architects and city planners continue to prioritize sustainable transportation solutions, these funding opportunities provide critical support in realizing their goals of creating resilient, environmentally friendly, and accessible communities for all.

https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/biden-harris-administration-announces-nearly-17-billion-help-put-better-cleaner-buses