Pittsburgh, PA – Hybrid buses, Autotherm Energy devices and propane-powered vehicles are just some of the ways Port Authority of Allegheny County is cutting costs and helping the environment.
Port Authority will showcase some of these improvements while participating in several Earth Day events scheduled through the next few weeks. Earth Day is celebrated on April 22. Six hybrid buses, which have decreased emissions, already are in operation and the Authority will add another 20 hybrid buses to its fleet in the fall.
Thousands of dollars will be saved annually in lower fuel and maintenance costs due to the installation of Autotherm Energy Recovery System devices in some of the Authority’s non-revenue vehicles. The devices, which were installed in 14 route foreman trucks and five police vehicles, help keep interiors warm without engine power. This also helps reduce vehicle emissions.
With the engine turned off, a small pump circulates hot engine coolant through the vehicle’s heating system.
The first propane-powered vehicle is now operating within the Port Authority-sponsored ACCESS system, which offers shared-ride service throughout Allegheny County. The cost to operate propane-powered vehicles is about 40% less than those fueled with gasoline. “This is definitely something that will help the environment,” said ACCESS Executive Director Karen Hoesch. “We are planning to phase out the use of diesel fuel altogether.”
Port Authority will be attending several upcoming Earth Day events. On Wednesday, April 22, 2009, the Authority will showcase a hybrid bus during the Blue, Green and Gold event at the University of Pittsburgh. Representatives also will demonstrate the use of a bus bike rack. The event features groups, speakers, workshops and suppliers.
From 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on April 22, the Authority will promote the benefits of using public transit during Highmark’s “Time to Start Saving Some Green” fair at Fifth Avenue Place, in Downtown Pittsburgh.
On Saturday, May 2, the Authority will show the environmental benefits of riding public transportation during the Ecolution 09 event at Phipps Conservatory. Drivers who choose to ride mass transit reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 20 pounds per day, or about 4,800 pounds per year. Nationally, public transportation saves about 4.2 billion gallons of gasoline in a year.