This week, the Ithaca City School District (ICSD) added two electric, zero-emission school buses to its fleet as part of its long-term plans to switch to a completely electric bus fleet by 2035. The electric buses took their inaugural ride transporting students participating in the district’s inclusive, project-based summer program, Project Innovation.
“Being a diesel/gas school bus driver for the past 14 years, I’m happy to be a part of the ICSD’s transition to electrifying the fleet,” Michael Friedman, bus driver and DMV 19-a trainer, said. “Over the past few days, I have been driving the new bus with students and it’s been an overall positive experience. The electric bus is quiet and drives smoothly. There are no emissions, so overall it’s safer for the children we transport.”
In April of 2022, New York State passed legislation that mandates all new school buses purchased to be zero emission by 2027 and all school buses in operation to be electric by 2035. The ICSD’s plans were in motion ahead of the passing of these laws, and the district will continue to build out its fleet in step with the requirements set forth by the state.
Electric buses produce no toxic exhaust, resulting in a healthier environment for ICSD students. The buses are also equipped with integrated child seats, lap-shoulder belts, video, live GPS, wireless connectivity, and LED first light stop arm and school bus signs.
The ICSD is working thoughtfully with many community partners to ensure equitable implementation of electric buses and preparing for significant infrastructure and operational changes in order to fully electrify the bus fleet. The ICSD will introduce three more electric buses in time for the start of the 2023-24 school year.
On May 16, 2023, ICSD voters approved the purchase of up to five electric buses, utilizing New York Truck Voucher Incentive Program, which provides $200,000 in rebates per bus, to defer costs of said buses; the purchase of up to three ultra-low emission propane buses; and the purchase of up to six passenger vehicles for the purpose of transporting students and supporting student programming and district departments. The vote passed with 81% approval.
