Central OC Times

ANAHEIM, CA — On June 27, Representative Lou Correa (D-Anaheim) announced that, in partnership with the City of Anaheim, the Anaheim Transportation Network (ATN) has been awarded a 3.6-million-dollar grant from the Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) to expand the agency’s electric bus fleet, charging capacity and workforce development.  This investment will complete ATN’s long-term goal of becoming one of the first all-electric public transit operators in the state.

“We need to continue to create good paying jobs, and keep our local economy strong, while ensuring practical access to quality public transportation,” Rep. Correa said. “This funding paves the way for a new generation of clean energy vehicles, providing Anaheim residents, tourists, and workers with sorely needed transportation solutions. I’m grateful to work alongside our local partners, especially Mayor Aitken and members of the Anaheim City Council, to ensure that Anaheim continues to get the federal support it deserves, for all those who work in Anaheim and call Anaheim home.” 

Funds provided as part of the FTA’s Low or No-Emission (Low-No) Bus Program Projects will assist in the purchase of ten 100% zero emission, battery-powered, 40’ buses and corresponding charging infrastructure, providing significant environmental benefits for Orange County residents and visitors.  

“I am proud that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is making it possible for Anaheim Transportation Network to purchase cleaner buses and invest in the charging and workforce training needed to make a complete transition to electric buses possible,” Senator Alex Padilla said. “I will continue leading the charge for investments that reduce air pollution and create healthier air for all our communities.” 

ATN will partner with local colleges and universities that have Electrical and Mechanical Engineering programs to provide internships to eligible students for workforce experience in the emerging zero-emission transportation industry.  

“As we modernize our fleet, we must also provide the necessary training and skills to our workforce that will enable them to continue the phenomenal job they do to ensure ATN vehicles are ready to serve our community,” said Diana Kotler, ATN CEO. “We want to thank U.S. Senator Alex Padilla and Congressman Lou Correa for their support to provide not only sustainable and clean-air public transit but also workforce development opportunities to our community.” 

ATN’s public transportation network plays an important role in connecting residents, visitors and employees to numerous regional employment centers. In addition, ATN connects riders through the county’s regional transit hub, Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC), to Metrolink commuter services and the interstate Amtrak system.

Original source can be found here.