The Federal Transit Administration has awarded Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) a $3.6 million grant to purchase electric buses and charging equipment. The grant will fund the purchase of the first fully electric buses in KAT’s fleet, which are initially planned to run on Route 17 along Sutherland Avenue.

The grant is part of $264 million in FTA funding awarded to 139 projects across the United States, to “improve the safety and reliability of America’s bus systems and enhance mobility for transit riders across the country.” The grant had the support of Congressman John J. Duncan Jr., who serves as vice chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

“This grant is great news for Knoxville residents and KAT riders,” Mayor Madeline Rogero said. “It will allow us to add new, energy-efficient buses to our fleet and continue our reduction of carbon emissions from City operations. Thanks to Congressman Duncan for his continued support of transit in Knoxville.”

Congressman Duncan stated, “I am pleased that this funding can be used to provide Knoxville with quieter and cleaner transportation alternatives.”

The grant provides an 80 percent match toward the purchase of buses and charging equipment, which will enable KAT to acquire up to five new buses and install the necessary infrastructure. 

“We anticipate having these advanced, quiet, efficient vehicles on Knoxville streets by the end of 2019,” said KAT Director Dawn Distler. “This will be a great addition to our fleet, which already includes 13 hybrid electric buses and trolleys.”