The city of Jackson has received a $13.7 million grant to upgrade its public transportation vehicles.
Made available by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the funds will serve to replace, expand, and modernize JTRAN’s existing fleet with hybrid and propane-powered buses. Jackson’s slice of money comes from a $1.5 billion initiative by the federal government to improve public transportation in 47 states.
“Today, 117 communities, including Jackson, are receiving the good news that their transit buses are being modernized and their commutes improved through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “The Biden-Harris Administration is helping agencies across 47 states replace old buses running on dirty, expensive fuels by delivering modern and zero-emission buses, manufactured by American workers, that will connect more people to where they need to go.”
Among the primary objectives of the funding are for Jackson officials to work toward lowering emissions, restoring confidence in public transit, and decreasing run times.
“This grant is a testament to our commitment to improving public transportation in Jackson and ensuring that our transit systems are efficient, reliable, and sustainable,” Congressman Bennie Thompson said. “The modernization of our bus fleet will not only benefit the environment but also enhance the quality of life for our residents.”
A full list of projects nationwide being facilitated by the federal grants can be found here.
