A few OmniRide commuter buses are getting ready to retire.
The Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC) has received a $3.6 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
The extra funding will be used to replace six older vehicles with new Motor Coach Industries (MCI) buses, according to a release.
“While PRTC does an excellent job of maintaining its rolling stock, DRPT understands that replacing vehicles while they are still in good condition is critical to maintaining a competitive edge,” Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) Director Jennifer Mitchell wrote in an endorsement letter to the FTA.
OmniRide has 125 buses that are used to transport Prince William residents and employees to other parts of Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.
The new 45-foot MCI buses will arrive in 2019 and hold 57 passengers.
The older OmniRide commuter buses will be auctioned off or be used in emergencies.
PRTC is among three local transit agencies that received funding from the FTA’s competitive grant program.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority (WMATA) earned $3.6 million for updated bus shelters, and Blacksburg Transit is collecting $1.4 million for two articulated buses.
“Having adequate funding to replace older buses will enable our riders to have a safe and more enjoyable commute, and that’s vital to our mission of improving overall mobility in the greater Prince William area,” PRTC Executive Director Bob Schneider said in a release.
The FTA is providing $264 million for 139 projects nationwide.
Through its grant program, the FTA seeks to improve safety and reliability of bus systems.
“FTA is proud to help bring new and rehabilitated buses, facilities, and equipment to communities across the country,” FTA Acting Administrator K. Jane Williams said in a release. “This marks a step forward in improving mobility for the millions of Americans who travel by bus to work, school, healthcare, and other services.”
