EL PASO, Texas – (KFOX14/CBS4) — Sun Metro is set to unveil its first zero-emission electric vehicle fleet later this morning, a move the city is calling a major investment in cleaner and more reliable transportation.
According to a city press release, the $11 million project will add 45 new electric vehicles to Sun Metro’s LIFT fleet, marking a first for the city’s public transportation system.
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The vehicles will be used for the LIFT program, which is available to people who fall under the Americans with Disabilities Act and provides curb-to-curb transportation services.
According to the press release, LIFT currently has a fleet of 70 paratransit buses and provides more than 18,000 rides a month.
Paratransit buses have hydraulic lifts and tie-downs to support riders with mobility problems.
Along with unveiling the new vehicles, Sun Metro is also expected to show new charging stations.
Sun Metro began modernizing its LIFT fleet in 2022.
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The $11 million is funded by the Federal Transit Administration’s Low or No-Emission program.
In a statement, Sun Metro Director Anthony DeKyzser said, “This project is truly transformative for our residents and El Paso’s public transportation system,” adding, “Modernizing the LIFT paratransit fleet improves equity in mobility, enhances service reliability, and elevates passenger comfort.”
A ribbon-cutting is scheduled for 9 a.m. at the Sun Metro LIFT facility off Fred Wilson.
PRESS RELEASE
To learn more about the LIFT program and how to apply, click here, or call (915) 212-LIFT (5438).
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