Tucson receives more than US$21 million to replace transport trucks

TUCSON, AZ – The City of Tucson received a $21.49 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for the purchase of 39 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to replace the remaining high-emission diesel-fueled buses in Sun Tran’s fleet.

According to the City Council, the switch will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 2,480 metric tons as the city works to achieve carbon neutrality in city operations by 2030.

“The City of Tucson is leading the way in tackling climate change head-on. I promised to take clear steps to create a clean, sustainable city. Decarbonizing the transit system will be a powerful victory for our community, bringing cleaner air and a brighter future for all citizens,” said Mayor Regina Romero.

The positive environmental impacts of these new buses will extend beyond Tucson’s borders, benefiting residents of the City of South Tucson, the Town of Marana, the City of South Tucson, the Town of Oro Valley, and unincorporated Pima County with access to Sun Tran fixed routes.

“This grant represents a significant investment that will reduce our collective transit carbon footprint, improve air quality, and enhance the quality of life for Tucson residents who have faced social and economic inequities. These are the positive opportunities that arise when Democrats are at the helm of Congress, taking decisive action to advance our climate goals and enable environmental justice in Southern Arizona. I look forward to our continued collaboration with the City of Tucson as we champion climate action, resilience and address the needs of historically underinvested communities,” said U.S. Congressman Raul Grijalva.

The transportation sector is responsible for nearly one-third of greenhouse gas emissions. With this grant, the City of Tucson Department of Transportation and Mobility will continue to pave the way for a more sustainable future.