FTA 03-05
Contact: Paul Griffo, Tel.: (202) 366-4043
Monday, January 31, 2005

U.S. Department of Transportation Announces $1.2 Million for First Hybrid-Electric Buses in Tampa-St. Petersburg

Tampa and St. Petersburg residents will see their first municipal hybrid-electric buses, thanks to a $1.2 million federal grant, Federal Transit Administrator Jennifer L. Dorn announced today.

The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HARTline) will use the grant to buy two 40-foot hybrid electric buses to replace diesel buses that have met their useful lifespan.
“Buses and technology purchased with this grant will mean smoother commutes for Tampa-St. Petersburg commuters, and a cleaner environment for everyone,” said Administrator Dorn. “The Bush Administration is dedicated to environmentally-friendly transportation investments that provide more efficient services for riders when traveling to stores, school and work.”
Hybrid-electric buses have propulsion systems that are powered by both a small diesel engine and electric motors, increasing fuel efficiency by 20 percent and reducing emissions. In addition to operating more efficiently and being environmentally friendly, the new hybrid-electric coaches provide a much quieter ride than traditional coaches while enhancing power for smoother and faster acceleration.

The grant also will be used to purchase intelligent transportation systems equipment, which is used to automatically locate vehicles, provide traffic signal priority and display real time bus arrival information. The equipment will improve the reliability and efficiency of bus service, as well as minimize long waits for Tampa residents manoeuvring through the system.

The purpose of the bus tracking system is to help bus riders by providing them with real-time information about the locations of all buses and their expected times of arrival at any given stop. With this information, the bus rider would be able to minimize waiting time for his bus, thus removing one of the greatest annoyances of public transportation.

The grant announced today is funded through the FTA’s capital investment program, which provides funding for the purchase of buses and the construction of transit facilities. Funds are allocated on a discretionary basis.

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