The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has announced the latest round of funding under its Low or No Emission Vehicle Deployment Program (LoNo). The agency is making $22.5 million in new grants available to help deploy transit buses powered by alternative fuel technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cells and electric and hybrid engines.
‘The LoNo program has helped deploy environmentally sound, technologically advanced vehicles across the country, providing a better riding experience for passengers and improving public health,’ says Acting FTA Administrator Therese McMillan. ‘By reducing fuel and maintenance costs, these modern vehicles are a great public investment – saving taxpayer money in the long run while powering innovative American enterprises.’
The FTA says it will award the LoNo funds on a competitive basis to transit agencies and state transportation departments working either independently or jointly with bus manufacturers already making low- and zero-emission buses. Priority will be given to applicants that do the following:
– Use tested bus models with proven effectiveness, especially zero-emission models;
– Exhibit strong transit agency and community commitment, including technical and project management skills; and
– Demonstrate understanding of and accommodation for public safety.
In addition, all LoNo procurements will have to follow FTA Buy America regulations and undergo bus testing at the FTA's facility in Altoona, Pa.
Of the $22.5 million available in LoNo grant funds, a minimum of $3 million is available to support facilities and related equipment. Transit agencies may also use a portion of their annual FTA formula funds to purchase additional vehicles.
The LoNo program was established under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act. The previous round of LoNo funding, announced in February 2015, awarded $55 million in grants to 10 organizations nationwide.
More information about the funding opportunity is available here.
