WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASS. – In a significant step towards cleaner transportation and healthier communities, the Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative (LPVEC) has been awarded a substantial grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This funding, part of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda, will enable the LPVEC to replace 25 diesel school buses with brand new, zero-emission electric models. The announcement was celebrated in West Springfield with EPA New England Regional Administrator David Cash, alongside local elected officials and school administrators, highlighting the collaborative effort to bring cleaner transportation to the region.
The EPA’s Clean School Bus Program, fueled by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is channeling nearly $1 billion nationwide to support the transition to electric and low-emission school buses. For the Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative, this translates to a $9,375,000 rebate for the buses themselves and an additional $500,000 dedicated to building the necessary charging infrastructure, totaling a remarkable $9,875,000 investment in the region’s future.
“The Investing in America agenda championed by President Biden is directly benefiting Massachusetts communities by providing crucial funding for the adoption of clean electric school buses,” stated EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. He emphasized the focus on environmental justice, noting, “This initiative prioritizes reducing air pollution in communities that have historically been disproportionately burdened by poor air quality.” Administrator Cash further highlighted the multifaceted benefits of this investment, explaining, “These zero-emission buses are not just about cleaner air for our children; they represent a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, combating climate change, and delivering cost savings to our local communities. Investing in America means investing in the health and well-being of our communities, ensuring parents can be confident in the air their children breathe.”
U.S. Congressman Richard Neal echoed this sentiment, stating, “President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver tangible benefits for the people of Massachusetts.” He underscored the legislative focus on clean energy, adding, “The Ways and Means Committee was deeply involved in crafting this law, recognizing the critical importance of environmentally friendly initiatives like the Clean Bus Program. This nearly $10 million investment in the Lower Pioneer Valley Education Collaborative provides a cleaner, healthier transportation option for students, directly contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality throughout our neighborhoods.”
Commissioner Bonnie Heiple of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) also emphasized the state’s commitment to environmental protection. “Protecting air quality and public health is paramount for the Healey-Driscoll Administration,” Commissioner Heiple remarked. “As Massachusetts observes Climate Week, these investments from the Biden-Harris Administration in electric school buses are incredibly timely. They will allow students in West Springfield and across the Pioneer Valley to breathe easier, while simultaneously contributing to our fight against climate change with every emission-free school journey.”
Superintendent Stefania Raschilla of West Springfield Public Schools expressed enthusiasm for the program and its local impact. “The West Springfield Public School District is delighted to participate in the Clean School Bus Program through the Lower Pioneer Valley Education Collaborative,” Superintendent Raschilla stated. “We are very excited about the positive impact these zero-emission buses will have on air quality within Hampden County communities.”
Alvin W. Morton, Executive Director of the Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative, emphasized the broader significance of the initiative. “The Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative (LPVEC) is proud to be part of this important local, state, and national effort to reduce our carbon footprint and create a cleaner, healthier environment,” said Executive Director Morton. He highlighted the educational and community benefits, adding, “The introduction of 25 electric buses to our fleet represents a significant step towards a greener future for the LPVEC and our seven member districts, including West Springfield. Being part of the EPA Clean Bus Program empowers us, our member districts, our communities, and most importantly, our children, to understand and embrace environmental conservation.” Executive Director Morton concluded by thanking the EPA and MassDEP, stating, “We appreciate the recognition of the EPA and Mass DEP for our contribution, alongside West Springfield, to creating healthier, less polluted communities for everyone.”
Diana Coyne, a member of the West Springfield, MA School Committee and the LPVEC Board of Directors, shared her firsthand experience with the project. “As a West Springfield district representative on the Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative (LPVEC) Board, I have been fortunate to witness the realization of this $9,875,000 EV bus and infrastructure award,” said Diana Coyne. She emphasized the practical advantages, noting, “These 25 buses will benefit both West Springfield and other LPVEC member districts, providing students with healthier and quieter rides. This transition will also result in valuable school budget savings, making it a win-win situation. We extend our sincere gratitude to the EPA and MA DEP for recognizing the LPVEC and West Springfield.”
The transition to electric school buses offers wide-ranging benefits. Beyond reducing harmful emissions and improving air quality for students, drivers, and communities, the EPA Clean School Bus Program contributes significantly to addressing climate change by decreasing greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. Furthermore, the program’s second round of funding, announced this past summer with $400 million in grants available nationwide, signifies the ongoing commitment to transforming the nation’s school bus fleet. This substantial investment under President Biden’s Investing in America agenda not only promotes cleaner air and protects children’s health, particularly in overburdened communities, but also generates economic opportunities through good-paying clean energy jobs and cost savings for school districts.
For those seeking more information about upcoming grant and rebate opportunities, including informational webinars and listserv sign-ups, please visit the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program webpage.
