The transportation department added a propane-fueled bus to the bus fleet this summer, according to Ron Farrand, director of transportation and facilities. This bus is bus number 89 and replaced a diesel-engine bus of the same number; in the future, it is very likely that more propane-fueled buses will be added.

“It is very likely (that we will add more buses), at least with our smaller buses, but we will base some of that decision on the overall economics of the propane-powered bus versus diesel as well as the environmental benefits. The cost of propane fuel is cheaper and more environmentally friendly, but is less efficient burning,” Farrand said.

The transportation department is also considering other alternative fuels.

Farrand said, “The main limitation is what is available in the market and what can be cost effective. For instance, there are natural gas powered buses but the cost of the infrastructure is very high and has more safety parameters to account for. There are hybrid buses coming into the market and we do monitor manufacturer’s information and trade journal publications for information. We are open to the possibility of alternative fuels but we have to balance the costs and benefits.”

However, Xuchen Wei, frequent bus rider and freshman, said he thinks new buses may not be worth the money.

“It’s not very cost effective to replace already functioning buses with environmentally friendly ones,” Wei said. “There are so many other options; putting in something new is more cost effective than replacing things.”

For more information on the transportation department click here.