Governor Kathy Hochul announced $100 million in state funding to support the transition to zero-emission transit vehicles for non-MTA transit providers, advancing New York’s ambitious climate goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act of 2019.
The funding, provided through the state’s Zero-Emission Transit Transition Program (ZETT), aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and modernize transit systems by encouraging investments in electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, as well as the infrastructure needed to support them. Applications for funding will be accepted through April 4, 2025.
“Transportation is an important front in our battle against climate change, and we must explore every avenue to reduce greenhouse emissions from this vital sector,” Hochul said. “This funding will encourage transit agencies to incorporate more zero-emission vehicles into their fleets, which will lead to cleaner air in our neighborhoods and help us stave off the impacts of climate change.”
Eligible transit systems, including the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA), Central New York Regional Transportation Authority (CNYRTA), Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA), and Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA), can apply for up to $17.5 million each. Counties, local municipalities, and other entities receiving Statewide Mass Transportation Operating Assistance (STOA) funding can apply for up to $5 million. Both categories require a minimum 10% non-state funding match.
Projects eligible for funding include purchasing zero-emission buses, building or upgrading facilities to maintain these fleets, constructing utility infrastructure for charging and fueling, and developing zero-emission fleet transition plans.
State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez underscored the significance of the initiative, stating, “The Zero-Emission Transit Transition Program will further our efforts to reduce carbon emissions by helping local transit agencies stock their fleets with climate-friendly vehicles. This is a great opportunity for communities across New York to invest in zero-emissions transit, and I encourage all eligible agencies and entities to apply.”
The program aligns with New York’s broader environmental goals, which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by 2050. Transit agencies are being positioned as critical partners in achieving these targets while addressing environmental justice in communities historically burdened by transportation pollution.
Interested parties can find more information and submit applications through the New York State Department of Transportation’s website.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].