$6.6M Federal Transit Grant Highlighted in Senator Dick Durbin’s Visit to MTD

Illinois Senator Dick Durbin visited the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District’s maintenance and training facility to address the urgency of taking action against climate change. During his visit, Durbin highlighted the importance of responding to the message sent by “Mother Earth” and emphasized the need for immediate action.

The purpose of Durbin’s visit coincided with the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) being awarded a substantial federal grant of $6.6 million as part of the Federal Transit Administration’s “Low or No Emission Vehicle Program.” This program aims to promote the use of eco-friendly transportation options.

On June 26, the Federal Transit Administration announced total funding of $1.69 billion, which would be distributed among 46 states and territories to support low-emission and zero-emission public transit initiatives. Durbin explained that this funding was made possible through a bipartisan infrastructure law and highlighted the increased focus on investing in transit agencies under President Biden’s administration.

The federal funding awarded to MTD through the grant program has been allocated toward the acquisition of more hydrogen-powered buses. Karl Gnadt, the managing director and CEO of MTD, expressed gratitude for Senator Durbin’s support and emphasized the significance of funding in achieving the organization’s climate goals. Hydrogen fuel-cell electric buses, while environmentally friendly, come with a higher price tag compared to traditional diesel buses. Therefore, financial assistance plays a crucial role in enabling MTD to transition to cleaner and more sustainable transportation options.

During his visit, Senator Durbin was given a tour of MTD’s hydrogen production facility by Gnadt. The tour provided insights into MTD’s ongoing research and development initiatives aimed at advancing clean energy solutions. Durbin commended MTD for its innovative approach, particularly highlighting their use of solar power to produce hydrogen.

MTD envisions a future where its fleet becomes even more environmentally friendly with the support of time and funding. Gnadt expressed MTD’s commitment to electrification efforts and stated that they had recently retired their last fully diesel buses, transitioning to a fleet that is 100% low and no emission.

Durbin acknowledged MTD’s pioneering role in investing in hydrogen-fueled public transportation, noting that they are one of only two transit agencies outside of California engaged in similar research. He commended MTD’s forward-thinking approach and encouraged the community to take pride in the organization’s leadership, especially as it is associated with a prestigious university.

The Champaign-Urbana community, including students at the University of Illinois, greatly benefits from MTD’s services. The transportation fee assessed to students’ tuition covers MTD ride fares, allowing students to utilize the MTD system daily. Durbin emphasized that the close proximity of MTD to the university creates an opportunity for students to witness and engage with the progress being made in sustainable transportation. He expressed hope that this exposure would inspire future generations to consider clean energy options and become advocates for environmental change.

Overall, Senator Durbin’s visit highlighted the importance of addressing climate change through sustainable transportation solutions and recognized MTD’s leadership in this field. The federal grant awarded to MTD will further support their efforts to create a cleaner and more environmentally friendly transit system for the community.