As part of Michigan’s Clean School Bus grant program, Alpena Public Schools is one of 29 districts in the state to receive funding to replace diesel buses with those powered by electricity, propane, or natural gas. This initiative aligns with a broader state and federal push to improve air quality, reduce harmful emissions, and promote the health and safety of schoolchildren.
The grant program, administered by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), is a key element of the state’s efforts to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. Diane Golzynski, the Deputy Superintendent for Business, Health, and Library Services at MDE, emphasized the environmental and health benefits of the program. “For every eco-friendly bus purchased, a diesel bus gets taken off the road," Golzynski said. “This not only helps reduce emissions but also creates a safer environment for kids, particularly those with asthma who are more vulnerable to poor air quality.”
Alpena Public Schools received approximately $90,000 to purchase two new propane buses. This decision reflects the district’s commitment to both environmental stewardship and fiscal responsibility. According to Lee Fitzpatrick, Director of Communications for Alpena Public Schools, the district has already experienced the advantages of propane buses. "There are reduced operating costs and reduced maintenance costs," Fitzpatrick explained. "The fuel is cheaper, and the system is simpler, leading to fewer breakdowns." The district’s propane fuel is sourced from a local provider, further reducing costs and supporting the local economy.
The shift to clean school buses is part of a larger movement across Michigan, supported by state and federal funding. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has been a critical partner in this initiative, leveraging funds from the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. In May, the administration announced nearly $24 million rebates for Michigan schools to purchase 100 clean-energy buses, including 97 electric and three propane buses. This investment builds on earlier efforts that had resulted in only 17 electric school buses across the state before the law’s passage.
Introducing clean school buses in Alpena County and other districts across Michigan represents a vital step toward achieving the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, which seeks to accelerate the state’s transition to a prosperous, healthy, equitable, and clean energy future. Phil Roos, Director of EGLE, highlighted the broad benefits of this transition. “The commitment by the state and federal governments to provide schools with more environmentally friendly buses is good for our children, good for our schools, and good for our communities,” Roos stated. “These efforts are improving air quality, allowing schools to invest in the classroom, and advancing Michigan’s clean energy future.”
Alpena Public Schools, with its ongoing commitment to sustainability and student well-being, is poised to explore opportunities to expand its fleet of eco-friendly buses in the future. Fitzpatrick noted, “We live in a beautiful place in Northeast Michigan, and we want to protect our environment where possible.”
