The Mesa County Regional Transportation Planning Office has secured a federal grant exceeding $600,000 to aid in the purchase of three new paratransit buses for Grand Valley Transit (GVT). This funding aims to enhance accessible transportation options for residents across Grand Junction and Mesa County.
The Mesa County Commission formally approved the $758,691 purchase order for these buses during its Oct. 6 meeting. The total cost is being covered through a combination of federal and local funds, with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) providing the majority of the financial support. The grant from the FTA specifically covers $644,877 of the expense, representing 85 percent of the overall cost. The remaining 15 percent, or $113,804, will be covered by local contributions from the Grand Valley Regional Transportation Committee.
These new vehicles are designed to significantly improve service for GVT paratransit riders. Each of the three buses will run on compressed natural gas (CNG) and will have the capacity to carry up to 12 passengers. A notable enhancement is the increased accessibility for wheelchair users: each new bus will feature five wheelchair positions, which is an increase from the normal two-wheelchair positions typically found on paratransit buses. This expansion means more riders requiring wheelchair accommodations can be transported at one time, potentially reducing wait times or increasing service availability.
The choice to purchase CNG-powered buses comes with a higher initial price tag. According to the planning office, CNG paratransit buses cost approximately $30,000 to $50,000 more than a diesel bus, with the exact figure varying depending on the vendor and bus type. However, officials noted that this higher upfront investment is intended to be offset by the lower cost of fueling the buses with CNG over their operational lifespan. This financial strategy aims to provide long-term savings for the transit system while also upgrading its fleet.
The addition of these three buses directly impacts Grand Valley residents who rely on GVT paratransit services for daily travel, whether for medical appointments, work, or other essential activities. The investment, spearheaded by the Mesa County Regional Transportation Planning Office with approval from the Mesa County Commission, underscores a commitment to improving public transportation infrastructure and ensuring that specialized transit services remain robust and accessible for those who need them most in the community. The collaboration between federal and local entities ensures that essential upgrades can be made to support the mobility needs of Mesa County citizens.
