GEORGETOWN, Texas — A Central Texas school district can soon purchase two new school buses powered by propane gas.
Georgetown ISD is being given a $240,000 grant from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to help fund the two new buses, according to Community Impact.
These buses will replace two of the district’s diesel-powered vehicles, which were originally produced back in 2006.
The transportation systems will also be purchased at a more affordable price. Each bus is priced at roughly $164,000, Community Impact reports. Most of the cost will be covered by the grant, while just over $88,000 will be payed for by the district.
Other TCEQ school bus grants
The TCEQ offers several school bus grant programs, including the Texas Clean School Bus Program. This grant allows eligible public and open-enrollment charter schools to replace any diesel school busses manufactured before 2007. It also enables retrofitting systems to be added to currently operating buses, according to the TCEQ.
Not only that, but it helps create safer breathing conditions for children by limiting their exposure to diesel gas, which can cause an increased risk for inflammation, asthma and in some instances, lung cancer.
Other school bus grants include the DERI Rebate Grant Program and the Texas Hydrogen Infrastructure, Vehicle and Equipment Grant Program. These, along with the Texas Clean School Bus Program, are not currently accepting applications.
The Governmental Alternative Fuel Fleet Grant Program, or GAFF, helps Texas districts lease or buy new vehicles such as electric or hybrid buses. Applications for this grant are open until 5 p.m. Feb. 5.