Regional planners hope to tap the federal government for more than $50 million for electric buses and charging stations ahead of the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
The North Central Texas Council of Governments Regional Transportation Council on Thursday voted to move forward with applications to the Low or No Emissions grant program and the Bus and Bus Facilities grant program. The proposal would seek funds to purchase up to 59 electric buses, including 50 for the World Cup and nine 45-foot buses for Trinity Metro.
World Cup buses would include 20 40-foot buses and 30 small transit light-duty vehicles. The funds would also help pay for 11 electric charging stations for FIFA vehicles and one charging station for Trinity Metro. Vehicles would be transitioned to public transit agencies throughout the region to replace buses near or at the end of their useful life with electric vehicles after the World Cup.
The project would cost an estimated $55.4 million, including $2.8 million in local match funds provided by Trinity Metro. Project proposals must include a zero-emissions transition plan, and 5% of the federal funding must be dedicated to workforce development.
The council would only be eligible for funds through one of the two grant programs.
Applications are due April 25 and would need to be endorsed by the executive board before submittal. Awards will be announced on July 10.
