This action approves an award in the amount of $6,275,000 under the infrastructure investment and jobs act (IIJA) to bibb county board of education

This agreement is to replace existing school buses with clean and zero emission (ZE) school buses. Activities:the activities include replacing existing diesel buses with a combination of 7 EV buses and 7 propane buses and will also be putting in 15 new EV chargers. Mixing new fleet with propane and EV is due to the route distance, workforce capabilities and alignment with the current fleet mix. The project will allow them to reduce exhaust emissions and will give our transportation team to train on new technologies and prepare for a future of electrified transportation for students. Subrecipient:no subawards are included in this assistance agreement.outcomes:the anticipated deliverables include replacing 25 existing diesel buses with a mix of 15 electric (EV) buses and ten propane buses and also installing 15 DC fast charging stations to support the growing number of EV buses in our fleet. These activities are expected to result in substantial reductions in harmful emissions and improvements in air quality while maintaining reliable transportation options for students. A comprehensive workforce development plan will be implemented to ensure that current drivers, mechanics, electricians, and other essential personnel are adequately trained to operate and maintain the new technologies without displacement. Our workforce planning includes a series of training programs specifically designed for district personnel, covering various aspects of the new technologies. These programs encompass basic safety and electric school bus familiarization, driver operator training, technician training, charging station training, and first responder training. By providing these training opportunities, they are equipping our transportation team with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively handle electric (EV) and propane buses. The expected outcomes include resulting in an annual reduction of 1,283 metric tons of CO2 emissions, significantly improving local air quality and contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. This reduction in emissions will have direct health benefits for students who rely on school bus transportation, as IT will reduce their exposure to diesel exhaust emissions and potentially lower incidences of respiratory illnesses such as asthma. The larger community will also be positively impacted since these buses travel throughout bibb county to transport students. The intended beneficiaries include community members and school students located in bibb county, GA