New Vehicles Improve Rider Comfort, Advance Sustainability Goals
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Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins announced the arrival of 116 new hybrid-electric buses that will modernize the Bee-Line Bus System, improve the customer experience and complete the transition away from diesel-powered buses.
The new fleet includes 111 New Flyer 40-foot Xcelsior® hybrid-electric buses and five 35-foot Xcelsior® hybrid-electric buses. The investment replaces the remaining diesel buses in the Bee-Line fleet, reinforcing the County’s commitment to providing reliable public transportation while advancing its sustainability goals. Sixteen of the new 40-foot buses are specially designed for express-style service, including the BxM4C route, and feature a single entrance door and overhead luggage racks to better accommodate commuters.
County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “The Bee-Line is a vital resource that connects people to work, school, health care and countless opportunities throughout Westchester and beyond. By replacing our remaining diesel buses with modern hybrid-electric vehicles, we are investing in cleaner transportation and a better experience for every rider. These new buses reflect our focus on building a more sustainable transit system while delivering the high-quality service our residents deserve.”
Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi said: “Public transportation is one of the smartest investments we can make for Westchester’s future. It keeps our workforce moving, cuts emissions and puts money back in commuters’ pockets. I’m proud the Board of Legislators has stood behind this kind of progress. I know our residents will feel the difference every time they step onto one of our buses.”
Westchester County Department of Public Works and Transportation Commissioner Hugh Greechan said: “These new buses represent a major investment in the future of our bus system. In addition to reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency, they provide the amenities and features our riders have come to expect, including USB charging ports, bike racks and accessible seating. We’re proud to continue modernizing our fleet with vehicles that are more comfortable, dependable and environmentally responsible.”
Westchester County Director of Energy Conservation and Sustainability Peter McCartt said: “These electric-hybrid buses are state-of-the-art in reducing mass transit emissions. Combined with our rail system and our micro-mobility resources across the County, commuting has never been better for our clean air goals. With the adoption and growth of electric vehicle use by our residents, municipalities, the County and commercial fleets, we have had far fewer hazardous air quality alerts.”
Liberty Lines Managing Director and Principal Bruce Bernacchia said: “Westchester has invested considerable resources in these new vehicles. Liberty Lines recognizes the magnitude of this investment and is dedicated to protecting and maintaining these vehicles to the highest standards. The procurement of these new vehicles will provide improvements to the operational efficiency, safety, system reliability, and the overall Bee-Line experience.”
Each of the 116 hybrid-electric buses includes customer amenities such as bike racks, USB charging ports at every seat and priority seating to improve accessibility and convenience for riders. The express-style buses also feature overhead luggage racks and a single-door configuration tailored to commuter service.
The addition of the new fleet builds on Westchester County’s ongoing investments in the Bee-Line Bus System, including upgraded bus shelters, enhanced rider amenities and a continued commitment to providing safe, reliable and sustainable public transportation for residents and visitors throughout the County.