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Board hears preliminary $7.4 million infrastructure estimate to support electric buses
Summary
A preliminary Wendell assessment presented to the board estimated about $7.4 million to phase in charging stations and required fire‑suppression infrastructure for a 30‑station design; superintendent said the final report is expected in about three months.
The superintendent updated the board on a preliminary assessment by Wendell that considered phasing, charging stations and fire‑suppression requirements for a transition to zero‑emission buses. The firm’s initial design addressed charging for 30 buses; the superintendent said district runs and facility constraints mean the district may require roughly 40 buses to meet service needs.
“For the charging stations and the fire suppression equipment that is required, would be a phasing cost of $7,400,000,” the superintendent said, describing the scope of infrastructure investment needed. He noted that roughly 51% of current runs could not be satisfied by electric buses because of run length and recharging time and that the district’s current transportation facility footprint may not accommodate the spacing and infrastructure needs. The superintendent said the final Wendell report is expected in about three months and that the district and regional advocates are pressing for a more phased and realistic statewide approach to the mandate and available funding.
Board members discussed alternatives (including hybrids or selective deployment where runs allow) and community vote history on related capital projects. Staff will return with the final Wendell assessment and options for a phased approach.
