Georgetown ISD Introduces Propane-Powered School Buses

News Summary

Georgetown Independent School District is set to enhance its transportation safety with the introduction of two new propane-powered school buses, funded by a $240,000 grant from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. This initiative aims to replace aging diesel buses, thereby improving air quality for students and saving costs in fuel and maintenance. The district’s commitment to environmental safety shows a significant step towards greener transportation solutions in the community.

Georgetown ISD Welcomes New Propane-Powered School Buses

In an exciting development for families and students in Georgetown, Texas, the Georgetown Independent School District (ISD) has secured a generous $240,000 grant from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to help purchase two brand-new propane-powered school buses. With this funding, the district is taking a significant step towards improving its transportation options while also enhancing environmental safety for its young riders.

Goodbye Diesel, Hello Propane!

The new buses will replace two older diesel-powered vehicles that have been cruising the streets since 2006. Each of the shiny new propane buses comes with a price tag of about $164,000, making this grant a huge boost for the district, as it will cover most of the costs. Georgetown ISD will contribute a little over $88,000 to the purchase, reinforcing its commitment to creating a safer and greener future for students.

A Breath of Fresh Air

Why such a focus on propane? It turns out that the switch from diesel to propane isn’t just about shiny new wheels; it’s about health and safety. The initiative aims to create safer breathing conditions for children by reducing their exposure to harmful diesel exhaust. Diesel fumes have been linked to inflammation, asthma, and even lung cancer, so by opting for propane, the district is paving the way for healthier bus rides for all.

Funding Programs and Environmental Impact

The TCEQ offers various grant programs to help schools make this switch. One notable program is the Texas Clean School Bus Program, which is designed specifically for public and open-enrollment charter schools to upgrade from diesel vehicles manufactured before 2007. It also allows current buses to be retrofitted with systems that minimize emissions.

Alongside this new grant, Georgetown ISD has a history of pursuing environmentally friendly options. Back in 2018, the district made strides by purchasing 21 propane buses with voter-approved bond money to replace aging vehicles. In addition, the district received an impressive $1.3 million in grant funds from TCEQ, allowing them to add 12 more propane buses to their fleet. With this latest addition, Georgetown ISD will boast a total of 33 new propane buses, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable transportation.

Savings All Around

The advantages of using propane buses extend beyond environmental benefits. Propane fuel is significantly cheaper than diesel, with the current prices showing diesel around $2.25 per gallon compared to just 98 cents for propane. Over time, these fuel savings can lead to considerable cost reductions for the district.

Moreover, propane buses require less maintenance than their diesel counterparts. This means lower upkeep costs and ultimately more funds available for other crucial programs within the school district. It’s a win-win situation—more money to invest in education and a healthier environment for students.

Future Initiatives and Opportunities

While Georgetown ISD celebrates its new propane buses, the TCEQ has additional funding opportunities to explore. Currently, the Governmental Alternative Fuel Fleet Grant Program (GAFF) remains open for applications until February 5. This program assists Texas districts in leasing or buying new vehicles, including electric or hybrid buses, presenting further chances for schools to modernize their fleets.

Looking Ahead

With these exciting developments, Georgetown ISD is setting the stage for not just improved transportation but for a cleaner and healthier environment for its students. The shift towards propane-powered buses is a striking example of how the district is embracing innovation while putting the well-being of its students first. Here’s to safer and greener bus rides ahead!