Michael S. Regan 16th Administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency | Official Website
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced an investment of $111 million to address polluted sites and introduce clean school buses across New York State. The funding, primarily sourced from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will be allocated through two major programs: nearly $96 million via the EPA’s Clean School Bus Rebate program for replacing existing school buses with electric models, and approximately $15 million through the EPA’s Brownfields program for assessing and cleaning up polluted sites.
EPA Region 2 Administrator Lisa F. Garcia made the announcement in Buffalo, New York, alongside Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore and Region 3 Administrator Adam Ortiz. The event was attended by U.S. Representative Tim Kennedy and local community leaders.
“Kids deserve a clean ride to school, and people deserve clean and healthy neighborhoods,” said Garcia. “Today’s announcement shows how EPA is investing in Buffalo's communities and its kids.”
Senator Majority Leader Schumer emphasized the broader impact of this funding: “This $111 million federal surge will help revitalize New York communities by powering schools across New York with clean, low- and zero-emission school buses and boosting localities to clean up contaminated eyesores across the state.”
Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted the state's commitment to a greener future: “Transitioning to a zero-emission school bus fleet not only represents our commitment to a greener future but shows our commitment to the health and well-being of the next generation.”
Congressman Tim Kennedy expressed his support for these initiatives: “With this latest funding, parents and students can breathe easier knowing they are on safe, clean, electric buses.”
The Clean School Bus Rebate Program will benefit 47 communities with rebates totaling about $95.7 million for over 350 electric buses and five propane buses. The Buffalo School District alone is set to receive over $8 million for purchasing 25 buses.
In addition to transportation improvements, EPA has selected 13 communities for Brownfields grants totaling $15.3 million to accelerate site assessments and cleanups. Among them, Buffalo Niagara River Land Trust will receive a $500,000 grant aimed at improving water quality in underserved neighborhoods.
Several elected officials praised these investments:
"Upgrading to clean electric energy school buses that save money...are what we need to undo years of environmental damage," said Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03).
“From implementing clean transportation to addressing decades of pollution...we are creating a sustainable future across New York State,” said Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06).
"No child should be exposed to harmful impacts of pollution on their daily ride to school," stated Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09).
Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) added: "We will work together to ensure a cleaner, greener future for children and families."
Representative Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) highlighted specific allocations: “NYC School Districts #2 and 3 in Manhattan have been selected for a combined $12 million in Clean School Bus funding.”
“This investment...will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lead to cleaner air,” said Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13).
Congressman Jamaal Bowman (NY-16) emphasized the importance of addressing climate change impacts on marginalized communities: "We have a responsibility...to make bold investments in climate resilience."
Congressman Pat Ryan (N-18) reflected on past successes with green bus fleets: "Our communities are reaping the benefits."
Finally, Congressman Joe Morelle (NY-25) remarked on the significance of these investments: "This $111 million in federal funding...will help improve transportation and infrastructure here in Rochester."
For more details about rebate selections or grantee selections under these programs, visit EPA’s Clean School Bus Rebate Program webpage or EPA’s Brownfields Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup Applicant webpage.