Beyond the Bus

CATA is making strides toward its goal of fleet electrification and achieving net-zero emissions. The expansion of its hybrid fleet has been a successful first step, and the next phase of the plan is to transition entirely to electric vehicles. CATA is collaborating with manufacturers to introduce electric buses by 2025, aiming for a fully electric fleet by 2035.

“We’re excited about our progress,” said CATA Director of Planning and Development Dustin Hagfors. “While supply chain delays pose challenges, we remain committed to our timeline.”

This initiative also recently earned CATA gold status from the American Public Transportation Association, recognizing the Authority's ambitious commitments, as well as a $1 million funding award from U.S. Representative Elissa Slotkin.

An investment in charging infrastructure and staff training will result in an efficient fleet integration. CATA will continue to deliver reliable service while introducing electric buses. The only noticeable difference will be a quieter ride.

“We want the community to know we’re doing our due diligence,” added Hagfors. “Our goal is for this technology to be seamless, because we don’t want to disrupt someone’s ability to get to work just to get an electric bus on the road.”

The Authority’s dedication to sustainability is evident. In addition to electric vehicles, CATA implemented recycling programs for vehicle parts to lessen upkeep waste and furnished new bus shelters with solar panels.

This content has been published in the 2024 Community Report.