Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority exploring a zero-emission future

Transportation accounts for 55% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions produced on Cape Cod. While riding public transit is a way to reduce GHG emissions from personal vehicles, a fleet of zero-emissions buses could further reduce emissions – which the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) hopes to accomplish. 

The Commission is working with the CCRTA on a nine-month study to explore transitioning to a zero-emission fleet.  

In 2022, the CCRTA developed a 10-Year Strategic Plan and 5-Year Capital Spending Plan, which provides substantial funding resources for the planned migration from fossil fuel vehicles to electric vehicles, supporting EV infrastructure and technician training.   

“As a low-lying peninsula, Cape Cod is one of the most vulnerable locations in America to rising sea levels caused by climate change,” says CCRTA Administrator Tom Cahir. “Public transportation on Cape is my responsibility, and as such, to help mitigate climate change, the CCRTA is leading the way in pursuing a transition to zero-emission vehicles.”   

Encouraging the use of public transit is an integral part of the region’s climate strategy. “Trips taken by public transit and shared transportation options have a lower carbon footprint than single-occupancy vehicle trips,” says Cape Cod Commission Executive Director Kristy Senatori. “The climate benefits of public transit would be even greater for a system utilizing zero emissions vehicles. Accelerating the electrification of the transportation system is a priority strategy in the Cape Cod Climate Action Plan, and this study will position the region to be a leader in this area.” 

The Commission and CCRTA have contracted with Hatch Associates Consultants for the study. Recognizing the complexities of choosing a particular type of ZEV, Hatch is assessing various ZEVs, including electric, hydrogen, and hybrid options, to ensure the region moves forward with the best fueling technology for near and mid-term timeframes. 

Learn more about the study and sign up for updates by visiting: https://capecodrta.org/about/zev-journey/ 

Information from the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority informed this article.