Two transit agencies in the Tri-Counties got an early Christmas present from the federal government, which will allow them to step up efforts to go green with zero-emission vehicles.
The federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is providing $234 million to 16 transportation programs statewide. Santa Barbara's Metropolitan Transit District will get $2.8 million dollars, and San Luis Obispo's Regional Transit Authority will receive $2.5 million dollars.
Santa Barbara MTD officials say the money will help them buy two new 40 foot long electric buses, along with chargers. The MTD currently has 23 zero-emission vehicles, and has funding to buy 14 more. With the latest grant, 39 of its 100 busses will electric.
