Board updates transportation plan: routing, fuel system RFP and expanded electric bus use

District staff gave an update on transportation earlier in the June 24 meeting, describing operational changes and equipment trials the board approved to continue.

Staff said the transportation committee developed a new walking‑boundary map that will define which students walk and which will use community stops; several community stops near walking thresholds were moved for safety. The district will publish the map before the school year.

Administrators will issue a request for proposals to replace the district's aging fuel‑management system and pumps, described in discussion as obsolete and difficult to maintain. Staff said the system appeared to be running on an old MS‑DOS platform and they will seek proposals for a modern fuel‑management system and pump replacements; they are also evaluating other bulk fuel suppliers to ensure competitive pricing.

Maintenance schedules will shift: preventative maintenance for buses will occur every 3,000 miles (down from 5,000) with oil changes on alternating services to detect issues earlier.

On electric buses, the district reported trial usage on several trips with drivers volunteering to pilot the vehicles. Staff said typical trips returned with abundant battery reserve (example: a Columbus round trip returned with about 57% battery). Two electric buses will be assigned to routes in the coming year and staff expect the quieter operation and reduced brake wear to benefit both riders and vehicle longevity.

The board expressed support for the proposals and directed staff to continue outreach and finalize procurement steps where required.