Press Release: $9.3 Million Federal Funding Moves SolTrans Toward 100% Electric Fleet

NEWS RELEASE

September 18, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

$9.3 Million Federal Funding Obligation Secures Completion of 14-Bus Zero-Emission Project as SolTrans Moves Closer to a 100% Battery-Electric Local Bus Fleet

VALLEJO, CA. – SolTrans is celebrating a major milestone in its transition to zero-emission public transportation. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has obligated $9.3 million toward SolTrans’ previously awarded Bus and Bus Facilities Grant, allowing the agency to move forward with the complete purchase of 14 Gillig battery-electric buses and supporting infrastructure.

The funding is part of a $12.4 million competitive grant originally awarded to SolTrans in 2023 through the FTA’s Section 5339(b) Bus and Bus Facilities Grant program. The grant supports battery-electric buses, charging infrastructure, project management and workforce development as SolTrans advances its long-term commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable transit system.

Despite a pause in the federal obligation process for previously awarded grants, SolTrans continued moving the project forward. Because the agency had already entered into contracts and incurred eligible project costs, the U.S. Department of Transportation agreed to obligate $9.3 million of the original award.

SolTrans also extends its sincere appreciation to the Office of Congressman John Garamendi for its continued support and advocacy throughout the grant process. Congressman Garamendi’s office worked diligently to help advance and secure funding for this important investment in SolTrans’ zero-emission fleet and infrastructure. SolTrans is grateful for the partnership and commitment to supporting public transportation and the communities served by the agency.

Most importantly, the federal funding obligation allows SolTrans to complete the full 14-bus project.

With seven electric buses already in service, SolTrans is already seeing the benefits of this investment. The agency used separately programmed federal formula funding to purchase the first seven battery-electric buses, which were delivered in March 2026.

The remaining seven battery-electric buses are expected to arrive in late 2027. Together, the 14 buses will complete SolTrans’ transition to a 100 percent battery-electric local fleet.

“This is an exciting moment for SolTrans and for the communities we serve,” said Beth Kranda, SolTrans Executive Director. “We have been working toward an all-electric local fleet for several years, and we are thrilled to see this vision becoming a reality. With seven electric buses already on the road and seven more on the way, we are taking a significant step toward a cleaner, quieter and more sustainable future for public transportation in our community.”

The project represents more than an investment in new buses. SolTrans is also investing in the infrastructure and people needed to successfully operate an all-electric fleet. The grant includes funding for charging infrastructure, project management and workforce development, helping ensure SolTrans has the equipment, facilities and skilled workforce necessary to support zero-emission operations for years to come.

The arrival of the final seven buses in 2027 will mark an important achievement for SolTrans: the agency’s local fleet will be 100 percent battery-electric.

The transition is part of SolTrans’ ongoing commitment to modernizing its fleet and investing in environmentally responsible transportation solutions. Battery-electric buses can help reduce tailpipe emissions and noise while providing riders with modern, comfortable and reliable transit service.

“We are proud of the progress SolTrans has made toward an all-electric local fleet,” said Terry Scott, SolTrans Board President. “This project demonstrates what can be accomplished through careful planning, strategic investment and strong partnerships. Reaching a 100 percent battery-electric local fleet will be a milestone worth celebrating, and we look forward to sharing that achievement with our riders and our community.”

With seven battery-electric buses already operating and seven additional buses scheduled for delivery in late 2027, SolTrans is well on its way to an all-electric future!

For the latest schedules, route information, and real-time service updates, visit SolTrans.org.

Solano County Transit (SolTrans) has been the public transportation provider for south Solano County since July 2011. SolTrans provides local and SolanoExpress fixed routes and complementary paratransit. The agency is a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) governed by a six-member Board of Directors, composed of two representatives from the cities of Benicia and Vallejo, Solano County’s representative on the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), and a representative from the Solano Transportation Authority.

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$9.3 Million Federal Funding Obligation Secures Completion of 14-Bus Zero-Emission Project as SolTrans Moves Closer to a 100% Battery-Electric Local Bus Fleet

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