The City of Salisbury announces the arrival of two brand-new all-electric, 25-foot-long ADA-accessible transit buses, purchased through an $818,771 Volkswagen Settlement Transit/Shuttle Bus Program Grant from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ). These buses will replace two aging diesel buses and will be officially put into service to further the city’s commitment to sustainability and reduced emissions.
The public is invited to view the new electric buses before the City Council meeting on Tuesday, Oct. The buses will be available outside City Hall at 5 p.m., with the Council meeting to follow at 6 p.m.
“These all-electric buses are a significant step forward for our transit system,” said Salisbury Mayor Karen Alexander. “Thanks to this NCDEQ grant, we are able to retire two diesel buses and bring more efficient, environmentally friendly vehicles into our fleet. This move helps us continue our mission to reduce Salisbury’s carbon footprint while improving transit services for our residents.”
The NCDEQ grant also funded essential equipment, including charging stations, camera systems, fare boxes, destination signs, bike racks, and two-way radios. The electric buses will provide the same level of service as the retired diesel buses, with the added benefits of quieter operation, lower emissions, and reduced maintenance costs.
Rodney Harrison, Salisbury transit director, expressed his enthusiasm for the new additions: “We are thrilled to introduce these electric buses to our fleet. They not only reflect our commitment to cleaner, more efficient public transportation but also improve safety and operational efficiency. The slightly smaller buses will better serve residential neighborhoods and enhance overall rider experience.”
Salisbury Transit operates three fixed routes and ADA Paratransit services in Salisbury, Spencer, and East Spencer. The new electric buses will replace older models that had exceeded their Federal Transit Administration service life, improving reliability and efficiency for Salisbury’s public transit users.
For more information visit www.salisburync.gov/transit or contact Salisbury Transit at (704) 638-5252.