Tuolumne County’s efforts to update their bus fleet start with careful analysis and a solid plan

Tuolumne County Zero-Emission Bus Rollout Plan

Tuolumne County Transportation Agency (TCTA) set the goal to advance toward a zero-emission bus fleet. They directed staff to purchase an electric vehicle or two (to begin learning about the vehicles) while simultaneously moving forward with the creation of the rollout plan to transition away from their current fleet of all internal combustion engine vehicles. To efficiently execute this effort, TCTA knew they needed a roadmap to guide the process and engaged our team to help.

We began by analyzing TCTA’s utilities, service and operations, and zero-emission bus related policies and plans. Our facilities team prepared build-out concepts and proposed technologies, including electrical service, conceptual master plan recommendations, phasing strategy, and opinion of probable cost. Additionally, we conducted cost and lifecycle analyses of traditional, hydrogen, and electric vehicles. We also evaluated non-state/federal funding mechanisms and local funding used by California communities to assist in implementing projects outlined in the plan.

TCTA’s efforts will ultimately modernize their fleet and improve transit for their community.