COMET to receive grant to reduce vehicle emissions

Listen to this article

Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct the grant amount.

The Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority will receive a federal grant to reduce vehicle emissions.

The COMET will use the $2.9 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration’s Low or No Emission Vehicle Program to purchase electric and fuel cell buses, along with charging equipment and supportive infrastructure. The COMET will also be able to add more economical fueling sources and reduce greenhouse grass emissions in its fleet of buses, which serve Richland and Lexington counties.

“We are so excited to have this opportunity to contribute to improved air quality in our region and are grateful to the FTA for the funding to help make this happen,” Michelle Ransom, COMET grants and regional coordinator manager, said in a news release from the organization.

Ransom led the four-year grant process.

“We applaud Michelle on the work she does for the organization in pursuing available grant dollars locally and nationally,” said LeRoy DesChamps, COMET interim executive director. “Her diligence and perseverance have paid off in accomplishing this win that is greatly beneficial to The COMET, the Central Midlands, and the environment.”