On Saturday, Chapel Hill Transit unveiled 15 new diesel-electric hybrid buses. Chapel Hill’s fleet now has 29 hybrid buses, which make up about one-fourth of the fleet.
This is a savvy move on the part of town government. Chapel Hill Transit is the second largest transit system in the state. Because of the size and scope of the transit system, it is imperative that the transit framework is as conscious of its carbon footprint as possible.
The inclusion of 15 more hybrid buses proves that Chapel Hill has a commitment to environmentally friendly practices.
The incorporation of new hybrid buses into the fleet is excellent for the town because these new buses will reduce emissions and save money on fuel.
The new buses will take the place of older, non-hybrid buses that will eventually be discontinued from Chapel Hill Transit.
The town should be commended for getting these new buses without interfering with its free transit model.
Though the buses obviously cost money, they provide good value to the town in terms of environmental stewardship and long-term financial vision.
The town funded these hybrid buses mostly through a grant from the Federal Transit Administration.
In a time when broad tax hikes are on the table, it’s comforting to hear that the town can look to outside sources of funding to help finance important projects.
