GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – The first electric school buses in the history of Grand Rapids Public Schools are now on the road.
GRPS, in partnership with Dean Transportation, is adding 15 electric buses to its fleet, along with the necessary charging infrastructure. The project was funded through a $5.2 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and a $1.5 million grant from the State of Michigan.
Charging infrastructure has been installed to support all 15 buses. The first seven buses are now in service, with eight additional buses expected to join the fleet soon.
“This is exactly what we mean when we say Reimagine GRPS,” said GRPS Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby. “This is progress. This is partnership. And most importantly, this is about creating better opportunities and safer experiences for our scholars every day.”
“When I see these buses parked here today, I see a school district leading by example,” said Grand Rapids Board of Education Vice President Aarie Wade. “I see a commitment to doing what’s right for our scholars, our community, and our future.”
Dean Transportation applied for the grants on behalf of GRPS and coordinated the installation of the charging infrastructure.
“This achievement reflects a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and a focus on providing safe and reliable student transportation throughout GRPS,” said Dean Transportation President Patrick Dean. “Today is a proud moment for everyone. It’s a strong example of what can happen when we work together with a shared vision.”
GRPS and Dean Transportation would like to thank the many partners who helped make this project a reality, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Michigan Department of Education, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Michigan Association of Pupil Transportation, Consumers Energy, and Hoekstra Transportation.
