UTA’s New Electric Bus Fleet: A Step Towards Cleaner Air and Environmental Justice
We are excited to share that the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) has been awarded over $18 million by the Federal Transit Administration to replace old diesel-powered buses with a new fleet of electric vehicles. This project is a significant step forward in reducing harmful emissions and improving air quality, especially for disadvantaged communities in Salt Lake County.
The grant will fund the addition of approximately 15 battery-electric buses, which are expected to be operational by 2027. These new buses will serve cities on Salt Lake County’s west side, including West Valley City and Taylorsville. These neighborhoods house many lower-income residents and have some of the worst air quality in the valley, making this initiative crucial for both environmental and social justice.
With a goal to expand to 200 electric buses by 2034, UTA’s efforts align with UPHE’s priorities of reducing emissions from mobile sources, which account for 50% of the area’s pollution. Electrifying transportation should improve air quality, as electric buses are more energy-efficient and can be powered by renewable energy sources.
UTA asked UPHE to write a letter of support for the program which we were more than happy to do. We said, “The health dangers of air pollution are well documented. This grant would be a great step in the right direction to help our local air shed along the Wasatch Front.”
This project not only supports cleaner air but also underscores the link between environmental justice and public health. By modernizing transit with clean energy technologies, we can reduce traffic congestion, decrease emissions, and create healthier communities. We encourage residents to support this initiative and stay informed about the progress of UTA’s electric bus fleet!