News Story

Metro has secured more than $50 million in new federal funding to modernize its bus fleet, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced Wednesday. The agency will receive $50,322,380 through the FY 2025 Low or No-Emission Grant Program, supporting the purchase of 50 new 40-foot diesel-electric hybrid buses.

The new vehicles will replace aging buses that have exceeded their useful life and will be deployed throughout the National Capital Region. Metro officials say the investment will improve service reliability, enhance safety, and reduce emissions across one of the nation’s busiest transit systems.

“This federal investment allows Metro to continue modernizing our fleet and delivering better, more dependable bus service across the region,” Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke said. “Replacing older buses with new hybrid vehicles means improved reliability for customers, lower emissions for our community, and continued progress toward a more efficient transportation system.”

Metro Board Chair Valerie Santos called the grant a significant boost to the region’s long-term mobility goals. “Investing in cleaner, newer buses strengthens the entire region,” Santos said. “This funding helps ensure Metro can continue providing safe, high-quality service while advancing efficiency and supporting the mobility needs of our growing region.”

The Low or No-Emission and Buses and Bus Facilities programs provide funding to transit agencies nationwide to upgrade and expand fleets, reduce congestion, improve safety, and support workforce development. Federal officials say this latest award will help modernize the country’s transit infrastructure and expand reliable, affordable transportation options for riders in the Washington metropolitan area.