GTrans Celebrates Clean Air Day with Launch of State-of-the-Art CNG Station and Deployment of New Zero-Emission Buses

(August 29, 2024-Gardena, CA) In celebration of “International Clean Air Day”, GTrans, Gardena’s Public Transportation System, is deploying an additional fleet of zero-emission buses AND, the launch of state-of-the-art CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) station. This means a total of 13 zero-emissions buses hitting the road throughout Gardena and neighboring cities, and steps closer to even cleaner air. The major announcement comes as the City continues an aggressive push to become a “zero emissions transportation city” by the year 2034, according to Assistant Director of Transportation, Dana Pynn. The buses and fueling station will be unveiled/in use beginning September 7, 2024.

GTrans is steadfast in its goal to ditch gasoline-powered buses in favor of cleaner, greener technology, “solidifying our commitment to sustainability, innovation and environmental stewardship,” said Pynn.

The new zero-emission buses, manufactured by Gillig, underscore GTrans’ dedication to modernizing its fleet and delivering a better experience for passengers. Pynn says the new buses are “equipped with advanced technology to enhance passenger comfort and safety, including improved seating, air conditioning systems, ADA-compliant features, and state-of-the-art security measures.” The new buses join GTrans’ existing fleet of six zero-emission buses already in service.

New CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) Fueling Station

The new CNG station is another major milestone and achievement in the transportation arena.

The new CNG fueling facility, located at 13999 S. Western Ave, Gardena, CA 90249, is designed to power GTrans’ existing CNG-powered vehicles that, coupled with zero-emission buses, are central to Gardena’s public transportation system.

“The City of Gardena is committed to improve our overall impact to our environment.  By transitioning to CNG and zero-emission buses, the City of Gardena and GTrans is taking a decisive action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.  We thank our partners in federal and local government by helping us fund these initiatives.” said Clint Osorio, City Manager for the City of Gardena. This project is funded in part by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and a grant from the Mobile Source Air Pollution Review Committee (MSRC) under the AB 2766 Discretionary Fund Work Program, highlighting the collaborative effort to promote cleaner energy solutions. Those solutions include, but are not limited to:

• Advanced Technology: Equipped with the latest in CNG fueling technology, the facility ensures efficient and safe refueling and maintenance of buses, minimizing downtime and maximizing operational efficiency.
• Environmental Benefits: CNG is a cleaner alternative to diesel, producing significantly lower levels of harmful emissions such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. Renewable natural gas (RNG) will be used as transportation fuel in the form of compressed natural gas (CNG), which creates even greater emissions reduction benefits. This transition supports GTrans’ goal of reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to a healthier environment.
• Economic Efficiency: The use of CNG as a fuel source is not only environmentally responsible but also cost-effective. It helps to lower fuel costs and reduce dependency on imported oil, providing long-term economic benefits for the community.

“Today marks a major step forward in our commitment to sustainability and innovation,” said Ernie Crespo, Director of Transportation at GTrans. “We are excited about the impact our CNG station and the deployment of our newest zero-emission buses will have on the community. This investment reflects our pledge to move away from gasoline, reduce emissions, improve air quality, and enhance the reliability and comfort of our service. It’s all part of our ongoing mission to create a more sustainable and connected future for Gardena.”

Click here to see the full press release.