Washington, DC – Today the Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that it will award $6.7 million to the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) as part of the FY 2022 Low-No Grant Program and Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Competitive Program.

This funding will allow the RTC to obtain hydrogen fuel cell electric buses, solar lighting for bus stops, and pedestrian detection and collision avoidance software for their fleet. Last year, the RTC served more than 35 million passenger trips across nearly 40 bus routes.

This project addresses the climate crisis and will create an equitable, clean energy future while also enhancing the safety and security of all roadway users in Southern Nevada. In May, Rep. Titus sent a letter to the Federal Transit Administration expressing her strong support for RTC’s application.

“Public transit is essential to providing access to daily needs, including employment, education, and healthcare services, said Rep. Titus. “In annual transit rider customer satisfaction surveys, bus stop security remains a topic of importance. Enhanced lighting at transit stops will greatly improve the sense of security for passengers, allow riders to identify bus stops more easily, and assist drivers in recognizing individuals waiting for the bus. Nearly 350 lives were lost on Nevada roads in 2021, marking the deadliest year for drivers since 2007. The on-board pedestrian detection and collision avoidance equipment will improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders through real-time visual and audio alerts, providing operators with enough time to react and avoid collisions. I am excited the RTC was granted this funding which will ensure that the region can meet its climate goals while providing access to safe and reliable transportation.”

“We are thrilled to receive this funding from the Federal Transit Administration and greatly appreciate our Congressional delegation’s continued support of the RTC’s sustainability efforts,” said MJ Maynard, RTC of Southern Nevada Chief Executive Officer. “In addition to improved air quality and service reliability resulting from new zero-emission vehicles, this funding will accelerate RTC’s fleet transition efforts, while helping to meet state emission-reduction targets that will create a more equitable, resilient, and environmentally sound future for Nevada.”

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