This is a FFY 2022 section 5339(c) low or no emission grants competitive award application in the amount of $6814807

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded $6.81M to the Chatham Area Transit Authority under the Buses and Bus Facilities Formula, Competitive, and Low or No Emissions Programs (CFDA 20.526) on August 21, 2025. This competitive Low or No Emission Grants award, totaling $6.81M in federal funding with a $1.36M local match contribution, supports the acquisition of four 35-foot hybrid-electric buses designed to modernize the transit agency's fleet and reduce operational fuel costs. The award period extends through March 30, 2035, allowing for comprehensive implementation of the bus procurement initiative.

In addition to fleet modernization, the grant funds support critical workforce development activities to ensure maintenance staff, operators, and transit personnel receive specialized training in hybrid-electric vehicle technology management and maintenance protocols. The initiative includes establishment of preventative maintenance planning procedures tailored to hybrid-electric bus operations. These coordinated activities—vehicle procurement, infrastructure preparation, and workforce readiness—position the Chatham Area Transit Authority to enhance operational efficiency, improve service reliability, and advance long-term transit modernization goals while reducing environmental impact across the Savannah-Chatham County metropolitan area.

Activities

The award funds will support a comprehensive set of activities designed to enhance the agencys efficiency and operational resilience. A key component of this initiative is the procurement of four (4) 35-foot hybrid-electric buses which will replace t existing hybrid vehicles significantly reducing fuel costs. In addition to fleet modernization preventative maintenance planning will be a crucial aspect of this transition as the agency works to establish new protocols and procedures for maintaining hybrid-electric vehicle technology.to support workforce readiness a dedicated training program will be implemented to equip maintenance personnel drivers and operations staff with the specialized skills required to manage and maintain transit vehicles. This training will cover areas such as safety diagnostics and best practices for optimizing performance and longevity. These activities collectively align with the agencys strategic goals of improving service reliability and supporting public transportation initiatives. By leveraging this funding to modernize its fleet and infrastructure the agency is making a long-term investment in transit solutions that benefit both passengers and the broader community.

Expected outcomes

The award will yield several significant benefits advancing the agencys commitment to efficient public transportation. The expected outcomes include:1. Improved operational efficiency hybrid- electric buses require less maintenance than traditional diesel-powered vehicles reducing downtime and operational costs while enhancing service reliability.2. Enhanced service quality rider experience the deployment of modern hybrid -electric buses will provide passengers with a quieter smoother and more comfortable transit experience.3. Regulatory compliance the project supports compliance with federal state and local regulations and environmental compliance 4. Workforce development training staff will receive specialized training in transit vehicle maintenance and operations ensuring a skilled workforce capable of managing and maintaining advanced transit technology.5. Cost savings fuel efficiency by reducing fuel the agency can achieve long-term cost savings through lower energy consumption and decreased maintenance expenses. These outcomes collectively contribute to a more efficient and forward-thinking transit system that benefits the agency passengers and the broader community.

Intended beneficiaries

The intended beneficiaries of this award encompass a broad range of stakeholders who will directly and indirectly experience the positive impacts of modernizing the transit fleet.1. Commuters general public riders will benefit from a cleaner quieter and more reliable transit system improving their overall commuting experience. 2. Transit agency employees bus operators maintenance staff and other transit personnel will receive specialized training to enhance their skills in managing and maintaining buses promoting workforce development and job readiness for emerging transportation technologies.3. Local communities residents neighborhoods along transit routes will experience a modern transit system. 4. Municipal regional authorities local governments and regional planning agencies will benefit from a modernized transit system that compliances with environmental regulations and long-term transportation planning efforts.5. Business economic sectors a more efficient transit system can lead to increased ridership supporting local businesses and economic growth by improving access to jobs services and commercial hubs.by implementing hybrid electric buses this initiative will provide widespread benefits reinforcing the agencys commitment to operational efficiency and enhanced public service.

Subrecipient activities

This award will be directly managed by the transit agency with all activities including procurement infrastructure development workforce training and fleet integration handled internally. No subrecipients are planned for this project.