BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS - Following hot on the heels of the announcement that Avelo Airlines is going to fly nonstop from Brownsville to Las Vegas, the Rio Grande Valley’s largest city has received more good transportation news.
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has awarded Brownsville a $4.7 million grant for the replacement of six diesel buses with battery-powered electric buses.
Brownsville City Manager Helen Ramirez said the grant will facilitate the procurement of six battery-powered electric buses. These more advanced buses will provide a quieter, smoother ride and experience for residents, she explained.
Helen Ramirez“This grant represents a significant step towards the City's commitment to reduce its carbon footprint and provide cleaner, more efficient public transportation,” said Brownsville City Manager Helen Ramirez.
“BMetro is the largest transit provider in the RGV serving over one million riders annually including high school, UTRGV and TSC students.”
Brownsville Mayor John Cowen said the city commission is “immensely grateful and enthusiastic to receive this generous grant.”
Cowen said the funding will enable Brownsville to continue to do its part to improve air quality in the South Texas region, while continuing its path of transitioning to zero-emission.
“This not only benefits Brownsville’s environment, but also promotes a higher quality of life for its residents. By embracing cleaner practices, we're positioning Brownsville as a forward-thinking City, conscious of the role we play in combating climate change,” Cowen said,
Ramirez said the Gillig Allison Gen Flex™ system, which is the vehicle's engine, allows transit agencies to set zero emission zones in which a bus will automatically run in full zero emissions, engine off in pedestrian areas, such as neighborhoods, parks, downtowns, and other environmentally sensitive areas.
She said it can then recharge itself in diesel hybrid operations in less environmentally sensitive areas.
“These new buses will allow metro to continue to provide access to jobs and healthcare. while meeting other daily needs for residents, through reliable transportation,” Ramirez said. “They will also empower our community to do its part to improve climate change.”
Mayor Cowen also extended his appreciation to the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration (FTA), City of Brownsville staff, and those who played a crucial role in securing this grant.
He said the replacement of the six buses is consistent with the City of Brownsville's most recent Transit Asset Management plan and current fleet zero-emission transition plan. He said the City remains dedicated to fostering innovative solutions that bolster economic growth while preserving our environment for future generations.
In an exclusive interview with the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service, Ramirez said Brownsville City Commission approved a $31 Million Certificate of Obligation Issuance at its regularly scheduled City Commission Meeting held Tuesday, June 20.
Ramirez said this financial move is designed to address road projects and key infrastructure needs within the City. She said the funding will go towards several strategic development projects. Of the total amount, $12.5 million is earmarked for road projects. In combination with the 2024 Operating Budget, Ramirez said, nearly $15 million will be dedicated towards roads over the next 12 months.
Brownsville Mayor John Cowen“Key economic development growth over the last few years has increased property tax valuations, which has allowed full-cycle reinvestment back into the City without increasing debt rates,” Ramirez said.
“Citizens have been patiently waiting for road improvements. We are grateful for the leadership of our Mayor and City Commissioners for approving the largest C.O. issuance in recent years to further improve infrastructure, economic development, and quality of life throughout the City.”
Ramirez said the issuance reflects the City of Brownsville's commitment to improving traffic conditions, tourism, and economic development for its residents and creating a solid foundation for future growth and development.
Mayor Cowen said that in addition to road projects, the proceeds from the issuance will be utilized as matching funds for the development and infrastructure of the award-winning Gladys Porter Zoo.
He said the issuance will also finance the replacement of aging Technology Network System switches to improve the efficiency of the City’s on-going traffic synchronization project. Moreover, the funds will be instrumental in the restoration of City-owned historic buildings.
“We are moving Brownsville forward to not only improve the current infrastructure, but to enable growth into the future as well,” Cowen said.
The issuance of the sale of the Certificates of Obligation will require approximately 45 days to complete.
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