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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin and U.S. Representative Ron Kind announced that the City of La Crosse was awarded $1.25 million by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for fuel-efficient public transportation investments that will help reduce emissions.
“Public transportation is one of the most vital components of a 21st century infrastructure network to ensure people can travel safely to their jobs, schools and throughout the community. Investing in innovative transit solutions will positively benefit our society, environment and economy,” said Senator Baldwin. “This federal funding will help cut emissions, support critical public transportation upgrades and enhance the quality of life for La Crosse residents and families.”
“Replacing La Crosse’s aging city buses with clean transportation will save money for taxpayers while also moving us towards a sustainable future,” said Rep. Ron Kind. “I am glad to partner with Senator Baldwin in announcing this exciting grant, and look forward to the implementation of these important improvements for the city of La Crosse and the Municipal Transit Utility.”
“The City of La Crosse and our Municipal Transit Utility (MTU) are so excited to receive this low-no emission grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to purchase new electric buses and charging stations for our MTU. These buses meet a critical need for modernizing our fleet and will help us further reduce our City’s carbon footprint and save taxpayer dollars. La Crosse greatly appreciates the work and assistance of Senator Tammy Baldwin and Congressman Ron Kind on this grant award, which highlights our strong federal-local partnership. Much credit also goes to our MTU board and our staff for putting together such a strong application,” said Mayor Tim Kabat.
This federal funding was provided through DOT’s Low or No Emission Competitive Program to support the purchase or lease of zero-emission and low-emission transit buses, including the acquisition, construction, and leasing of required supporting facilities such as recharging, refueling, and maintenance facilities.
As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Baldwin helped craft the Fiscal Year 2018 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Bill that included this funding.
