C-Tran to get $2.7M federal grant to replace 6 diesel buses

C-Tran will receive a $2.7 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration’s Bus and Bus Facilities Grant Program, according to a Wednesday announcement from Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, both D-Wash.

Clark County is one of three transit authorities in the state to receive a grant. The others are in Kitsap and King counties. The funding will allow C-Tran to replace its remaining six diesel buses, meaning C-Tran will have replaced its entire 28-bus fleet with renewable diesel buses by 2025.

“The agency is ready to utilize this funding to help replace our aging fleet with climate friendly and state-of-the-art buses,” said Shawn Donaghy, chief executive officer at C-Tran.

The new buses, which are expected to be delivered in 2023, will improve access and mobility for those in Clark County’s urban areas, according to the announcement.

“Clark County is the second-fastest growing county in Washington state, and having efficient, up-to-date transit infrastructure is critical to keep our communities moving as the region continues to grow,” said Cantwell. “As C-Tran continues to expand its Bus Rapid Transit network, having newer, more fuel-efficient buses will improve air quality for residents and provide better access and mobility for commuters.”