UPDATE: Burlington County has just launched a groundbreaking fleet of 10 electric buses designed to transport students of the Special Services School District. The official unveiling took place during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 25, 2023, at the district’s campus in Westampton, marking a significant step towards cleaner, more sustainable transportation for students.
This initiative, which includes the installation of five charging stations, aims to protect the health of students and staff while also delivering long-term financial benefits. The county officials, alongside New Jersey Assemblyman Balvir Singh, emphasized the importance of moving away from diesel-powered buses to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions.
During the ceremony, Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel stated, “The switch from diesel to electric powered buses is an investment in a cleaner environment and also our students’ health.” She highlighted that this upgrade will significantly reduce exposure to harmful diesel exhaust during school trips and daily commutes.
The Special Services School District acquired these electric buses from Wolfington Body Company using funds from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program. The total investment of $1.6 million in federal funding underscores the district’s commitment to transitioning towards eco-friendly transportation solutions.
These new vehicles will replace nearly half of the existing diesel bus fleet, with plans to eventually convert the entire fleet to electric. The newly introduced fleet includes seven 24-passenger buses and three 54-passenger buses, believed to be the largest electric bus fleet in Burlington County.
“This fleet represents opportunity, clean air for our students, and a forward-thinking approach to how we move our schools and state into the future,” said Dr. Ashanti Holley, Superintendent of the Special Services and Burlington County Institute of Technology (BCIT). “Together we’re going to drive change, one mile, one bus, and one student at a time.”
The installation of charging stations was managed in-house by the Burlington County Division of Construction Services, which has saved taxpayers an estimated 10 to 15 percent on costs. Burlington County Commissioner Randy Brolo praised this division for its success in completing over $17.5 million worth of construction jobs in 2024 alone.
As the district moves forward with this ambitious plan, the community has expressed strong support for greener initiatives that prioritize student health and environmental sustainability. The electric buses are expected to not only enhance the daily commute for students but also contribute to quieter neighborhoods and improved overall quality of life.
Officials encourage parents and residents to take pride in this innovative step, which sets a precedent for other school districts to follow. The next phase will involve monitoring the effectiveness of these buses and their impact on student health and environmental outcomes.
Stay tuned for further updates on the operational rollout of this electric bus fleet and its anticipated benefits for Burlington County families.
