MPUSD Secures Over $3 Million to Drive Environmental Stewardship with Zero-Emission School Buses and Charging Infrastructure
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 19, 2024
Contact:
Marci McFadden, Chief of Communications & Engagement
831-706-6971
MPUSD Secures Over $3 Million to Drive Environmental Stewardship with Zero-Emission School Buses and Charging Infrastructure
District Receives Two Major Grants to Advance Clean Transportation
Monterey, CA - The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District is proud to announce the award of two significant grants aimed at transforming student transportation with clean, zero-emission technology. These grants will fund the acquisition of electric school buses and the installation of necessary infrastructure, marking a significant step forward in MPUSD’s commitment to sustainability.
The California Air Resources Board HVIP School Bus Set Aside Grant provides the district with funding for eight (8) Micro Bird, Inc. 24-passenger electric school buses and 10 (ten) Level 2 charging stations. Each school bus is supported by a voucher amount of $350,000, totaling $2.8 million. In addition, MPUSD is eligible for reimbursement up to $203,027 for infrastructure and electric vehicle charging stations.
The first of the eight buses arrived Wednesday, August 14, 2024,followed by comprehensive operation and safety training for MPUSD’s bus drivers and mechanics.
Additionally, the Zero Emissions School Bus Z-019 Grant, awarded through the Monterey Bay Air Resource District and Central Coast Community Energy, will provide MPUSD with one 24-passenger Micro Bird, Inc. school bus. This bus will be reimbursed in the amount of $316,128 and is expected to be delivered in the spring of 2025.
To date, MPUSD has been granted $3,319,155 in funding for the acquisition of zero-emission school buses, infrastructure, and charging stations. These buses will not only contribute to a cleaner and quieter environment but will also enhance the overall experience for students, bus drivers, and mechanics.
"We are excited to take this important step toward a sustainable future for our students and community," said PK Diffenbaugh, Superintendent, Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. "These grants will allow us to provide safer, cleaner, and more efficient transportation for our students, aligning with our commitment to environmental stewardship."
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About Monterey Peninsula Unified School District
The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District is home to approximately 9,400 students in grades transitional kindergarten through 12th grade. The district also houses preschool and adult education. The district is built on a solid foundation of effective instruction, positive school culture, systems of support, and collaborative leadership. The district is nestled along the Monterey Bay, and stretches from the city of Marina to the north to the city of Monterey to the south, and includes the communities of Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Monterey, Sand City and Seaside.
