WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) and Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth announced that Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) will receive $17,807,630 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The funding will support Sangamon Mass Transit District in replacing its fleet of older buses with diesel-hybrid and compressed natural gas buses that reduce harmful emissions. Congresswoman Budzinski submitted a letter to the Department of Transportation supporting the Springfield Mass Transit District’s application for this grant funding earlier this year. 

“Our public transportation system connects thousands of working men and women throughout Central Illinois every day,” said Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski. “I’m thrilled that Springfield has been awarded more than $17.8 million in federal funding to purchase state-of-the-art, American-made low and zero-emission buses. This grant will help the Sangamon Mass Transit District modernize its bus fleet and lower fuel costs, as well as reduce harmful air pollution and help build a healthier future for our community. I’m glad to see the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continuing to deliver for Central and Southern Illinois with yet another transformational investment.”

“Today’s grant supports a more environmentally conscious future for Illinois’ infrastructure,” said Senator Durbin. “This funding will enable Sangamon County to invest in diesel-hybrid and natural gas vehicles, making transportation more sustainable and dependable for our communities.”

“Increasing the number of zero-emission and low-emission busses protects the health of our communities and our state,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud to see this funding help support a cleaner, safer future for Illinoisians and the next generation throughout Springfield. I will continue working alongside Senator Durbin and Congresswoman Budzinski to ensure our communities receive the much-needed federal resources they deserve.”

This funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Low and No Emission Grant Program with funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).