NFTA Introduces Natural Gas Operating Vehicles to its Fleet in New York
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced Jan. 11, that Metro is introducing compressed natural gas operating vehicles to its fleet, as the agency takes the initiative toward implementing a greener mode of public transportation.
Metro will begin operating the first of 44 full-size buses, first of 10 paratransit vans and two MV-1 supervisor vehicles, all powered by clean burning, compressed natural gas. The new buses and vans will replace the oldest diesel vehicles currently in use.
Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA executive director said, “I want to thank our federal and state delegations for their collective efforts in securing essential funds for these vehicles. This investment in New York’s transportation infrastructure magnifies the ongoing synergy between public transit investment, job creation and economic growth in western New York and further enhances the current fiscal stability of the NFTA in the process.”
The new 40-foot buses manufactured in Plattsburg, NY, by Nova Bus, feature modern interior design and lighting, an enhanced courtesy zone for boarding, increased window areas to maximize natural light, full stainless steel structure to provide industry leading safety and increased spacing to offer superior mobility device access.
“As a New York manufacturer of natural gas buses, we are very proud to support NFTA-Metro in achieving their Going Green initiative. NFTA’s Nova Bus vehicles are a combination of modern design and high functionality providing the citizens of Buffalo Niagara the best in public transportation experience,” said Rob Mowat, Vice President of Sales for Nova Bus.
Nineteen additional full size buses will be phased into service by Feb. 1. The remainder of the 44 buses (24) are expected to be carrying customers throughout the region later this summer.
This investment also realizes additional benefits for all of New York State and the North Country in particular, since these buses were all manufactured at the Nova Bus facility in Plattsburg, NY. Procurement of these vehicles is supported by $3.8 million in new New York State Accelerated Transit Capital funding provided to the NFTA through the 2015-16 New York State budget.
The paratransit vans, manufactured in Canandaigua, NY, by Shepard Brothers, will be used to provide an average of 700 rides per day for the 5,945 approved registered customers with special needs who depend on Metro paratransit services for their transportation needs. Nine additional CNG fueled vans will be incorporated into operation by February 1.