Empire State Review Team 
New York City, July 14, 2024 — The city rolled out its first fleet of electric school buses today as part of a pilot program aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality for students. The initiative, which includes 50 buses operating in the Bronx and Queens, is part of a larger plan to electrify the entire fleet by 2035.
“These electric buses represent the future of clean, sustainable transportation for our kids,” said Schools Chancellor David Banks at the program’s launch. The buses, equipped with advanced safety features and zero-emission technology, are designed to reduce harmful pollutants in neighborhoods disproportionately affected by poor air quality.
Parents in the Bronx, where asthma rates are among the highest in the nation, welcomed the initiative. “This is a game-changer for our children’s health,” said community advocate Rosa Hernandez. Environmental groups also praised the move, calling it a vital step toward addressing the climate crisis.
However, critics argued that the pilot program is too small and called for faster implementation across the city. City officials assured the public that funding has been allocated to scale the program significantly in the coming years.
Students riding the buses on their first day expressed excitement about the new vehicles, which feature Wi-Fi and charging ports for devices. The initiative is part of New York City’s broader commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
