When does zero mean more than zero?
When it’s about the Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration’s zero-emission buses.
As the name implies, the buses have zero carbon emissions, since they’re electric. It also means zero engine noise, zero exhaust fumes and zero need for oil changes.
All those zeros add up to benefits for the transit agency, the residents of Maryland and the environment.
“We’re proud to continue our commitment to sustainability and reduce the agency’s carbon footprint,” said Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold. “Zero-emission buses are a win-win for the citizens of Maryland who get to enjoy cleaner air while knowing their transit agency is doing its part to address climate change.”
The transition to zero-emission buses is occurring as older, diesel-fueled and hybrid buses reach the end of their useful lives. This year, seven of the news buses will be on the road as part of a pilot program. By 2030, plans are for 50% of the fleet to consist of the zero-emission vehicles.
This incremental approach includes significant facility updates, and is designed to meet the requirements of Maryland’s new Zero-Emission Bus Transition Act, which mandates all new buses procured for the state’s transit fleet be emission-free beginning this year.
In addition to testing its vehicles, the Maryland Transit Administration will upgrade its charging infrastructure at bus divisions, train operators and mechanics on the new technology and build one of the first in the nation 100% zero-emission bus facility.
Located at the Eastern Bus Division, the facility will be outfitted with energy-saving technology such as solar panels. The new facility, scheduled to be completed in 2029, will also feature improved sidewalks and crosswalks.
Community members are invited to participate in the project’s planning phase via public meetings and by inviting transit agency representatives to take part in community meetings. More information and tips on how to participate in this new chapter of Baltimore’s transit history can be found at zeb.mta.maryland.gov.
For more information about the Maryland Department of Transportation, go to www.mdot.maryland.gov, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.