The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Philadelphia leaders recently celebrated a substantial federal investment aimed at improving the city's school transportation system. EPA Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz joined local officials to highlight the nearly $17 million allocated to the School District of Philadelphia (SDP) through the EPA’s Clean School Bus program.
This funding, derived from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is part of a larger initiative providing $5 billion over five years to replace older diesel school buses with zero-emission electric models. The financial support allows SDP to purchase up to 45 new electric buses, marking significant progress toward reducing emissions and enhancing public health.
"The Biden-Harris Administration has made it clear that transitioning to new, cleaner, zero-emission school buses should be the American standard," said Adam Ortiz. He noted that these new vehicles would transport children more quietly while reducing tailpipe emissions, benefiting everyone living or working along bus routes.
The Clean School Bus Program aims to mitigate air pollution linked to health issues such as asthma, which can affect students' attendance. By phasing out older diesel engines, which disproportionately impact communities of color, the program ensures cleaner air for students and surrounding neighborhoods.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker expressed gratitude for these investments: "Our School District will increase its fleet of school buses by 45 more vehicles, thanks to this $17 million in funds from the Biden-Harris Administration." She highlighted how this initiative would help modernize the district's fleet and lower emissions.
U.S. Representative Mary Gay Scanlon emphasized her support for safer and cleaner transportation options: "I voted for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to make sure our kids could get to school safely... I'm glad to see the School District of Philadelphia tapping into this federal funding."
Tony B. Watlington Sr., Ed.D., Superintendent of SDP, acknowledged the significance of these developments: "We are pleased to be leading the way here in Philadelphia as we grow our zero-emission vehicles fleet and create cleaner and healthier environments for our children."
For more information on EPA’s Clean School Bus program or SDP's environmental efforts, visit their respective websites.