Funds will replace aging compressed natural gas (CNG) buses
Oceanside, CA – North County Transit – San Diego Railroad (NCTD) today announced the award of $16,774,170 from the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities and Low or No Emission Program. The federal investment will allow NCTD to replace end-of-life compressed natural gas (CNG) buses that operate on its BREEZE fixed-route service throughout North San Diego County.
“This award from the FTA underscores NCTD’s commitment to enhance safety and security on our modes and to provide a world-class transit experience for our customers,” said NCTD CEO Shawn M. Donaghy. “The replacement of aging buses near the end of their useful life will reduce delays caused by mechanical failures, ensuring our customers arrive to their destinations safely and on time.”
The new buses will be deployed on routes operated out of NCTD’s East Division facility in Escondido, which runs 21 of NCTD’s routes, primarily serving inland North County communities including Escondido, San Marcos, Vista, and areas of unincorporated San Diego County. In FY 2024, East Division BREEZE routes carried more than 2.2 million riders, helping reduce traffic congestion and improve regional air quality.
“Putting new, clean air buses on California’s streets will improve commutes, cut pollution, and enhance the quality of life for communities all across our state. Even years after its passage, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is continuing to deliver for California,” said U.S. Senator Adam Schiff.
Many BREEZE routes serve areas with high youth density and transit dependency, reinforcing the need for reliable vehicles to maintain access to education, jobs, and essential services. Within a quarter mile of the 21 East Division BREEZE routes, there are approximately 745 youth per square mile, more than three times NCTD’s systemwide average.
“North County Transit is a key fiber in the fabric of our community, and the federal government made a sound investment with this grant award,” said Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones. “This is a transit agency that innovates and delivers on promises. We all benefit when they succeed and we’ll all benefit from this grant funding.”
“As Vice Chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee, I know the incredible value that public transit provides to our communities,” said Assemblymember Laurie Davies. “New buses mean safer, dependable service for my constituents, facilitating access to small businesses and job centers throughout the region.”
NCTD’s application for funding from the FTA was supported by United States Senator Adam Schiff, California State Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones, California State Assemblymember Laurie Davies, San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond, and other regional partners.
