Fort Collins seeks funds for zero-emission bus to enhance sustainable transit services

The Colorado Department of Transportation's NAAPME Board Meeting on May 29, 2025, focused on several key funding proposals aimed at enhancing public transportation and reducing traffic congestion. The meeting highlighted discussions around three significant projects, each with varying degrees of support and eligibility for funding.

The first proposal discussed was a $730,000 employer incentive program designed to encourage private sector employees to utilize public transportation. This non-infrastructure project aims to collect data on multimodal environmental impacts and promote marketing campaigns for public transit. However, board members expressed concerns about its alignment with funding priorities, noting that while it could benefit diverse communities, it lacked a specific focus on any particular area.

Next, the board reviewed a request from the city of Fort Collins for $1,160,000 to replace a compressed natural gas bus with a zero-emission electric bus. This project is expected to enhance operational efficiency and provide a more sustainable transit option. Board members acknowledged its potential benefits but suggested that it might be better suited for funding through the clean fleet or clean transit enterprise programs, given the current funding limitations.

The final proposal came from the Bawling Group LLC, which sought $14 million for an electric vehicle project in Denver's High Point neighborhood. This project includes the electrification of tractor services and the installation of charging stations. However, staff indicated that this proposal did not meet the eligibility criteria for funding, as the limited liability corporation does not qualify under the relevant statutes.

In conclusion, while the meeting addressed several promising projects aimed at improving public transportation and reducing emissions, the board's discussions underscored the importance of aligning proposals with funding eligibility and community impact. The board will continue to evaluate these projects and their potential for future funding opportunities.