For over a decade LISD has been working to revamp its bus fleet by phasing out aging diesel buses and replacing them with cleaner propane-fueled buses. In committing to this effort, the district has obtained multiple grants over the years.

In 2018, LISD received $740,000 in funding from Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and added 24 propane-fueled buses to its fleet. As part of a TCEQ grant requirement, the district’s out-of-circulation buses, currently parked across the administrative offices, will soon be dismantled.

β€œThe impact of our school bus fleet on the environment is a big concern because many of our community members live in an environmentally sensitive area,” said Ann Hatton, director of transportation for the school district. β€œThey appreciate that our school district is adopting a cleaner transportation option in propane.”

School buses fueled by propane emit fewer greenhouse gases and total hydrocarbon emissions, and virtually eliminate particulate matter when compared to conventional diesel-powered buses. About 30 percent of LISD’s total fleet runs on propane, with a plan to convert to 60 percent in the next five years.