School districts takes steps to better planet Earth with electric buses

SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A local school district is taking steps to make the planet better for both the students and the community.

The first electric school buses have arrived in Lackawanna County. From the outside, they may look like just your typical yellow school bus.

“The electric buses that are behind us are more than just a mode of transportation, they represent a step forward for a greener Scranton,” said Superintendent Dr. Erin Keating.

Six electric school buses were delivered to Pete’s garage, the district contractor, Tuesday morning. These electric vehicles are zero-emission, which helps reduce diesel pollution throughout the city.

The powerful battery sits underneath and will recharge at the bus company’s new charging station.

“First and foremost you’re reducing the carbon footprint number one, number two the buses are newer any time you get newer safer equipment to put our children on that are being put on the roads here that’s always a benefit and a tremendous plus,” Scranton School Board President Ty Holmes said.

28/22 News took a ride with school officials. It’s a smooth ride and much quieter than your typical diesel engine.

“There’s no noise there’s no fumes there’s no smoke or anything that’s associated with diesel engines so I think it’s a benefit to everyone in the community,” said Rich Tarapchak with Rohrer Enterprises Inc.

“No noise. Is that better for bus drivers?” 28/22 News Julie Dunphy asked.

“Well, that depends sometimes the kids are a little bit loud and they like the engine noise to drown them out but overall I think it’s better for everybody,” Tarapchak replied.

The buses are funded by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program, a rebate and competitive grant program that is part of the infrastructure law.

“The buses are going to last longer, be more efficient less likely to break down, safer overall, provide a more quality and better transportation for our kids,” Holmes explained.

In total, Scranton will receive 25 electric school buses.

Scranton school district is one of 10 across the commonwealth selected to receive a total of 88 electric school buses.

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