Georgetown ISD Introduces Propane-Powered School Buses

News Summary

The Georgetown Independent School District (GISD) is investing $240,000 in two new propane-powered school buses, marking a shift from older diesel models. This initiative supports the district’s clean-energy goals and enhances student safety. With 33 propane buses now in their fleet, GISD has received accolades for their commitment to sustainable transportation and significant financial benefits due to reduced fuel and maintenance costs.

Georgetown ISD Welcomes New Propane-Powered School Buses

Big news in Georgetown! The Georgetown Independent School District (GISD) is all set to receive a generous boost of $240,000 to purchase two shiny new propane-powered school buses. These buses are not just brand new; they’re part of an exciting movement toward cleaner, greener energy solutions for our schools.

Out with the Old, In with the New

These new propane buses will replace two old 2006 diesel buses that have been serving the district well over the years. It’s a significant step forward in enhancing the district’s clean-energy initiatives, which is something students and parents alike can rally behind. The decision to switch from diesel to propane makes a lot of sense both for our environment and the district’s budget.

Building a Greener Fleet

Did you know that Georgetown ISD is no stranger to making the switch to cleaner fuel? By the end of January 2020, the district had already replaced nearly a quarter of its fleet with propane-powered buses. That’s a big win for eco-friendliness! The funding for these eco-conscious decisions comes from voter-approved bond money that was secured in the 2018 elections. This financial strategy allowed GISD to purchase 21 propane buses, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

The school district didn’t stop there! With an additional $1.3 million in grants from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Georgetown ISD has been able to secure a total of 33 propane buses. This is a fantastic example of how investing in clean energy can pay off for students, taxpayers, and the planet.

Student-Centered Choices

What really matters here is that all these decisions are made with students in mind. Transportation isn’t just about getting kids to school; it’s about ensuring their experience is both safe and healthy. Propane buses produce fewer emissions than diesel, keeping our air cleaner for all our future leaders. The district’s superintendent has made it clear that prioritizing cost-effective alternatives in transportation not only helps the environment but also contributes to the overall well-being of students.

Counting the Savings

Here’s an interesting point: propane fuel is priced at around 98 cents per gallon, which is a significant savings compared to diesel prices that hover around $2.25 per gallon. Even the U.S. government is getting in on the action by offering a propane fuel rebate of 37 cents per gallon for 2020. It all adds up to a much lighter financial burden for the school district.

Another advantage of propane-powered buses is that they require much less maintenance than their diesel counterparts. This translates to even more savings down the road, allowing the district to focus its budget on what truly matters: education and enrichment programs for our children.

Recognizing Excellence in Clean Energy

Georgetown ISD’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Recently, the district received the Clean Energy Innovation Award from the Propane Education and Research Council for their commitment to sustainable transportation solutions. This accolade was awarded on January 8, 2020, and it’s a proud moment for the entire community.

More Good News for Clean Energy

And it’s not just Georgetown making strides toward cleaner transportation. Marion County is also set to receive electric school buses through a separate funding initiative from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This initiative amounts to a stunning $58 million for electric school buses, which is fantastic news for promoting a healthier planet for all.

All in all, Georgetown ISD’s new purchase of propane buses is a step in the right direction, not only for our students but for paving the way for a more sustainable future. Let’s cheer on our district as they continue this important journey!