FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 10, 2024
Contact: Dominique Zuniga
Communications Director
DaZuniga@mercedcsd.org
209.385.6678
 

Merced City School District Transportation Moves Toward “Zero Emissions” Fall 2024

In partnership with F&H Construction, and Golden Valley Engineering, Merced City School District held a groundbreaking ceremony on the morning of May 10, to commemorate the planned installation of 18 electric bus charging stations and the newly constructed area of the District’s transportation department that will support a fleet of electric buses set to serve the students of MCSD in fall of 2024.

The “Zero Emission Vehicle” (ZEV) project is a response to the state of California’s added policy, requiring facilities of public agencies to develop energy conservation, cogeneration, and alternate energy supply sources. Upon conducting research and detailed estimates, the District received Board approval early in 2024 to enter into an energy savings contract with F&H Construction and Golden Valley Engineering.

This project, inclusive of 3 dual port chargers, 12 single port chargers, and 10 electric buses, will provide the District with an estimated reduction of fossil fuel usage by approximately 585,008 gallons over the expectant lifecycle of 15 years, at a cost savings of approximately $3,159,040, and total cumulative project savings of $1,668,813 over the 15-year projection.

Approximately $6.7 million in grant funding and rebates were awarded to support the majority of the costs associated with the ZEV project, requiring the District to invest no more than $1.6M over the course of two years.

“Ensuring the District takes continual strides toward reducing emissions while remaining fiscally prudent is a priority. I am grateful for our District staff and contracted partners who play a significant role in helping us get there”, stated Acting Superintendent Brian Meisenheimer.

MCSD anticipates beginning student transportation services with electric buses early next school year.

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