The Department of Public Works and Transportation Awarded $25.5 Million 'Low-No Emissions' Grant to Advance Transportation Innovation Efforts
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has awarded $25.5 million in grant funding to advance the “Proud to Charge” Zero Emissions and Sustainable Transportation Program in Prince George’s County. The Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) is a recipient of FTA’s FY24 Low and No Emission Vehicle Program grant. The award will initiate Phase II of “Proud to Charge,” which includes the construction of a microgrid charging and energy management system, and the acquisition of 15 additional electric buses, 5 new battery electric vans for demand response transit services, and new electric chargers. These key investments support the County’s transition to an all-EV bus fleet.
The Low-No Grant award also supports local economic growth, creating numerous jobs in vehicle maintenance and renewable energy production. Moreover, the transition to an electric fleet will promote investments in green technology and innovation within the County. Community engagement and education programs will be established to inform residents about the advantages of zero-emission transportation and encourage wider adoption of eco-friendly practices. The funding represents a pivotal step towards the County's commitment to sustainability and a cleaner future for residents.
By leading the way in adopting zero-emissions technologies, DPW&T aims to inspire other communities to pursue similar environmental initiatives. The grant will facilitate partnerships with state and regional stakeholders, along with tech organizations, to research and develop new solutions for electric vehicle integration and energy management. The County is embarking on a transformative journey with federal funding support, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in combating climate change while showcasing how innovative public transportation systems contribute to creating a healthier and more equitable environment for all.
Purple Line Light Rail Vehicles Unveiled in Prince George’s County!
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The arrival of the first Purple Line Light Rail Vehicles in Prince George's County marks a major milestone for the project. Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) Secretary Paul Wiedefeld and Prince George's County Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) Director Micheal Johnson, along with other key transportation and elected officials, attended the unveiling event at the Operations and Maintenance Facility in Glenridge, Maryland, on July 11, 2024. Maryland Transit Administration Administrator (MTA) Holly Arnold, Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Regional Administrator Terry Garcia Crews, MTA Purple Line Senior Project Director Ray Biggs II, and Purple Line Transit Partners CEO Doran Bosso, as well as representatives from Prince George's and Montgomery counties, were also on hand for the unveiling.
"Today signifies a major milestone for the Purple Line and a significant leap forward for Maryland's public transit future," said MTA Administrator Holly Arnold.
The new light rail vehicles can hold up to 430 passengers, provide seating for 80, accommodate eight wheelchairs, and feature eight bike racks to encourage the use of bicycles and scooters. The electric-powered vehicles are also designed to minimize noise as they travel through neighborhoods.
The Purple Line, scheduled to open in 2027, will include 21 stations and connect Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties. Once completed, the 16-mile light rail line will directly connect to the Metrorail Red, Green, and Orange Lines at Bethesda, Silver Spring, College Park, and New Carrollton. The Purple Line will also connect to MARC, Amtrak, and local bus services. The Purple Line promises to transform the region’s transportation landscape, providing a sustainable, efficient, and accessible transit option that will enhance connectivity and improve the quality of life for Maryland residents.
DPW&T's 'Stuff The Bus' School Supply Drive Has Officially Launched!
On Monday, July 15, 2024, the Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) kicked-off its annual Stuff The Bus supply drive initiative! The agency is thrilled to collaborate with local and regional partners to donate school supplies and invest in Prince George’s County students. DPW&T was joined by Radio One/WKYS 93.9 on launch day, in addition to employees, residents, and media covering the event. DPW&T looks forward to participation from new and returning donors, as well as the impact Stuff The Bus will have on the 2024 - 2025 school year. DPW&T invites the community to donate supplies and join this year’s effort to support Prince George’s County’s future leaders.
For more information on how to participate, please click HERE or see flyer below for more details.
Sidewalk and Pavement Rehabilitation Project to Improve Pedestrian Safety for District 5 Residents
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The Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) Office of Engineering and Project Management (OEPM) joined Council Chair Jolene Ivey on July 10, 2024, for a walking tour of Kilmer Street to discuss a long-awaited sidewalk and pavement rehabilitation project. Beginning in August, DPW&T is scheduled to perform new sidewalk construction along portions of Kilmer Street, 63rd Avenue, and 63rd Place in Cheverly. The project will also include retaining wall and curb work, along with road resurfacing. During the walking tour, Chair Ivey, DPW&T Deputy Director Stacey Smalls, and several OEPM engineers discussed the potential impact for residents along the affected route and ways to minimize disruption for the surrounding community. Following the walking tour, on July 22, 2024, DPW&T co-hosted a town hall event at Gladys Noon Spellman Elementary School to provide residents with an opportunity to learn more about the project from DPW&T leadership, ask questions, and express their feedback.
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