Corvallis, Ore., intends to award a contract to the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) to serve as project manager on its first battery-electric bus deployment project. The city estimates it will see two new battery-electric buses enter service in the summer of 2022 and its contract with CTE will help ensure success and mitigate risks associated with the deployment.
CTE will provide technical advisory and project management services to best match Corvallis’ unique bus and charging needs with the appropriate zero-emission technologies. CTE will also ensure that the city’s bus operators, maintenance staff and emergency responders receive proper training on how to operate and support the vehicles. Battery-electric buses are not a one-for-one replacement for conventionally fueled buses; CTE will help the city navigate these differences while providing city staff with the knowledge and tools they need for a successful deployment and continued operation.
Corvallis currently operates 15, 35-foot Gillig buses and one trolleybus – all powered by biodiesel fuel. The city has operated its transit service fare free for 10 years, serving a total of 9.4 million riders and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 17,326 metric tons. Since implementing fare free services, the city says it has better served its community, increased ridership and advanced the city’s long-term climate action goals. Adding electric buses to its fleet will not only create a cleaner environment but will also make the benefits of clean transportation more accessible to all.
“We are excited to be a part of this new beginning for the city of Corvallis,” said Dan Raudebaugh, executive director of CTE. “Deploying battery-electric buses clearly aligns with the city’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from single-occupancy vehicles. CTE looks forward to working with the city to combat the climate crisis and increase the number of zero-emission buses on the road.”
“The city of Corvallis has sought to reduce emissions from its transit fleet as part of its ongoing sustainability efforts,” said Tim Bates, Transit Coordinator for the city. “Transit fleet electrification would allow us to fulfill a long-desired component of the city’s Climate Action Plan. That will now be a reality, as the city will partner with CTE, the nationally-recognized leader in their field.”
CTE has helped more than 70 transit agencies deploy battery and fuel cell electric buses throughout the United States and is eager to serve the city of Corvallis as it begins its journey to zero emissions.
