REGINA — The City of Regina is looking to purchase new diesel buses.
Per a report, the city outlined a plan to replace 49 current buses between 2027 and 2030.
The city currently has $5.7 million annually in its transit fleet reserve and a maximum of $2.7 million through federal funding to help cover the cost.
However, there is still an additional $49 million in costs that would need to be found to replace these buses.
City administration has recommended a refurbishment program to help defer costs, but it is unclear how much those savings could be.
The city has committed to having a fully alternative technology bus fleet by 2040, but purchasing new electric buses now could increase costs for taxpayers.
In the report, an option to purchase 49 electric buses would require the city to secure $108 million in funding.
A University of Regina survey found “73 per cent of Regina residents support electrifying the City bus fleet. However, only 44 per cent were willing to pay in some capacity for a green initiative.”
The report will be brought forward to the executive committee next week.
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