URGENT UPDATE: Burlington County has officially launched a new fleet of 10 electric buses designed to transport students from the Special Services School District. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at the district’s Westampton campus, highlighting a significant move towards cleaner and safer transportation for students.
The fleet, funded through the $1.6 million received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, aims to eliminate diesel exhaust exposure for students and staff, marking a pivotal shift in school transportation.
“The switch from diesel to electric powered buses is an investment in a cleaner environment and also our students’ health,” stated Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel, who emphasized that this initiative will lead to quieter, zero-emission rides for the students.
The new fleet includes seven 24-passenger buses and three 54-passenger buses, making it the largest electric bus fleet in Burlington County. This upgrade replaces approximately half of the district’s aging diesel buses, with plans to fully transition to electric in the future.
Dr. Ashanti Holley, Superintendent of the Special Services School District, remarked,
“These buses represent more than just transportation. They represent opportunity, clean air for our students, quieter neighborhoods and a forward-thinking approach to how we move our schools and state into the future.”
The addition of five new charging stations, installed by Burlington County’s Division of Construction Services, further supports this eco-friendly initiative, promising long-term savings and sustainability. The division’s in-house work is projected to save taxpayers up to 15 percent compared to hiring private contractors.
New Jersey Assemblyman Balvir Singh echoed the positive sentiment, stating,
“This fleet of quieter and cleaner buses is a great step in the right direction and a great investment.”
This significant upgrade not only enhances the daily commute for students but also sets a precedent for environmentally-conscious decisions within school districts across the region.
As the Special Services School District embarks on this journey, the community is encouraged to embrace the change, as it represents a commitment to student health and environmental responsibility.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the impact of electric transportation on school districts nationwide.
