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The Huntsville City Council voted Thursday to allow the City of Huntsville to enter into an agreement with Gillig, LLC for the purchase of four new buses for Huntsville Transit.

The one-year contract with Gillig, LLC includes the purchase of up to four diesel or hybrid/diesel buses per year with the option of two one-year renewable contracts. The contract amount is $2.45 million, with the Federal Transit Administration covering 80% of the cost and the City funding the remainder.

“These new buses will allow us to service new routes, extend service to existing routes and increase the frequency of our routes,” Director of Parking and Public Transit Quisha Bryant said. “The buses are also needed to maintain our replacement schedule and required spare ratios.”

The possible addition of hybrid/diesel buses would also align with the City’s commitment to sustainability, as the benefits of hybrid/diesel buses include significantly lower emissions, increased efficiency and decreased maintenance costs. Additional funding in the form of grants would be needed to purchase hybrid/diesel buses.

“A robust transit system reduces traffic congestion and pollution and also provides essential access to jobs, education and health care for all residents,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “Investing in public transportation infrastructure is investing in the future of Huntsville, ensuring that we remain a vibrant, connected and thriving community.”

Visit HuntsvilleAL.gov/Transit to learn more about Huntsville Transit’s routes and service times.