Zero Emission Bus Transition Plan
Montgomery County's Zero Emission Bus (ZEB) Transition Plan
In Montgomery County, 42% of carbon dioxide emissions come from the transportation sector. While most of these emissions are generated by single occupancy vehicles, the County's public transportation system plays a key role by providing travelers with sustainable travel options, especially with the high cost of zero-emission single occupancy vehicles. Carbon dioxide emissions are a significant contributor to climate change. These harmful emissions drive air pollution, ocean acidification and other adverse effects that threaten public health, ecosystems, economies and social well-being. To mitigate these impacts and ensure a sustainable future, significant changes are needed to transition to cleaner, renewable energy sources. The County has an opportunity and an obligation to reduce air pollution by working towards providing a clean, zero-emission transportation fleet.
To guide this process, a Zero Emission Bus Transition Plan has been created to lead the way to ensure that the Montgomery County Climate Action Plan goal of zero emissions by 2035 is achieved. The plan is fluid and will be updated regularly to reflect new funding streams and advanced technology options. The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) and the County's Department of General Services (DGS) worked in partnership to create the plan. MCDOT operates the County's public transportation system, Ride On bus services, with a fleet of nearly 400 buses servicing about 80 routes. MCDOT is also aggressively applying for state and federal grants to secure funding to assist with the cost of sustainability projects that support the zero-emission goal. DGS manages the fleet and builds and maintains supporting charging infrastructure. Both departments work in tandem, helping Montgomery County emerge as a leader in climate action.
As the County's public transit undergoes its transition to zero-emissions, MCDOT will be working diligently to make buses more accessible and dependable for residents and visitors. With bus fare as low as $1 for all County operated buses including Ride On, Ride On extRa, Ride On flex and Flash Bus Rapid Transit, we hope residents will show support and give their local public transportation network a try.
UpadatesCheck back for ZEB Plan updates and milestones reached.
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