The Western Reserve Transit Authority has received a $1,848,023 grant from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency to replace two aging diesel buses with electric vehicles.

The Diesel Emission Reduction Grant will cover 75% of the cost to purchase two new electric buses, expected to be model year 2027 or newer.

"This is a significant step towards a more sustainable future for WRTA and our community," said Dean Harris, WRTA Executive Director. "By retiring older diesel buses and replacing them with zero-emission vehicles, we are improving air quality and reducing our environmental impact."

The grant will allow WRTA to continue its transition to a more environmentally friendly fleet. The agency recently added electric-powered staff vehicles and other battery-electric vehicles to its operations.

The DERG program supports public transportation agencies in Ohio by providing funding for the early retirement of older diesel buses.

WRTA says it has been actively pursuing initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and promote environmentally conscious transportation.