Press Release: SolTrans Awarded $12.5 Million for Electric Bus Fleet and Charging Infrastructure Expansion

NEWS RELEASE
June 28, 2023

Solano County – Solano County Transit (SolTrans), a leading public transportation agency serving Solano County is proud to announce that it has been awarded a substantial grant of $12.5 million for the procurement of 14 electric local buses, along with the installation of 11 plug-in chargers and 3 inductive chargers. The grant, provided by Federal Transit Administration through the “Bus and Bus Facilities” grant, will enable SolTrans to further enhance its commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions.

The funding will be allocated towards the acquisition of 14 state-of-the-art electric local buses, bolstering SolTrans’ fleet with cutting-edge technology that reduces carbon emissions and improves air quality within the communities of Benicia and Vallejo. These electric buses will not only enhance the overall transit experience for passengers but also contribute significantly to SolTrans’ goal of achieving a greener and more sustainable transportation system.

In addition to the electric buses, the grant will support the installation of 11 plug-in chargers and 3 inductive chargers. The plug-in charging stations will be placed at the SolTrans Operations and Maintenance Facility located at 1850 Broadway Street in Vallejo. And the 3 inductive chargers will be strategically placed throughout the SolTrans system to provide in-route charging.  The implementation of this charging infrastructure will play a vital role in supporting the smooth operation of the electric bus fleet, ensuring that the vehicles remain adequately powered and available for reliable service.

Part of this grant will support the necessary construction and installation to expand the existing charging infrastructure, which broke ground in April 2023. The facility upgrades will include electrical system enhancements, charger placement, and other essential modifications to ensure seamless integration and efficient charging operations. Included in the grant is 5% dedicated to creating comprehensive workforce development programs that focus on refining the skills necessary for maintaining and operating electric buses and charging infrastructure.

This significant investment in electric buses and charging infrastructure aligns with SolTrans’ commitment to environmental sustainability and its mission to provide safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly transit options to the community. By adopting electric vehicles and expanding the charging infrastructure, SolTrans aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and create a cleaner, healthier future for its riders and the region.

“We are thrilled to receive this substantial grant, which will help us to take a significant step forward in our transition to a cleaner, more sustainable transit system,” said Cristina Arriola, Chair of the SolTrans Board. “Expanding the electric bus fleet and adding the charging infrastructure reflects our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint for our communities and providing our riders with an eco-friendly transportation experience.”

SolTrans expresses its sincere gratitude to FTA for their support and investment in the future of sustainable public transportation. The agency is eager to begin the implementation process and expects to see a fully electric local service fleet fully operational by 2027.

Solano County Transit (SolTrans) has been the public transportation provider for south Solano County since July 2011. SolTrans provides local and SolanoExpress fixed routes and complementary paratransit. The agency is a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) governed by a six-member Board of Directors, composed of two representatives from the cities of Benicia and Vallejo, Solano County’s representative on the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), and a representative from the Solano Transportation Authority.

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