The Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) announced today the Iowa DOT has been awarded a grant for low or no emission buses and facilities. This is the second bus grant package funded by President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which has invested more than $3.3 billion in American transit buses and the infrastructure to support them.

The Iowa DOT will receive funding on behalf of five rural transit agencies to buy battery-electric buses to replace older diesel buses along with charging equipment. The project will also support the construction of transit facilities and workforce development.

HIRTA is one of the multi-county transit agencies under this grant and will be receiving a $6.1 million grant for the purchase of five low- and no-emission transit vehicles, related infrastructure, and a new facility. The Iowa DOT is partnering with MidAmerican and Alliant Energy on this project.

“This funding will help reduce emissions of greenhouse gases from transit vehicle operations, improve the resilience of transit facilities and enhance access and mobility within the service areas of these transit agencies,” said Emma Simmons, transit planner with the Iowa DOT.

HIRTA’s Executive Director, Julia Castillo said, “HIRTA leadership has been active in diversifying our fleet and reducing our carbon footprint for a while and we see this as an important step toward that goal. We appreciate the extensive support from Iowa DOT, our communities and the individuals we serve. Our commitment to serving our communities with innovation and foresight is further empowered by this grant. We extend our gratitude to the FTA, the Iowa DOT, and the Biden administration for their invaluable role in this endeavor.”