Davenport launches 4 new electric buses with help from federal grant

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) - Four new all-electric buses are now operating in Davenport with help of a $4.8 million federal grant the city secured.

The city won the competitive low- or no-emission transit grant after proving it could replace more of its aging fleet, save money and upgrade its infrastructure. Drivers say the new buses are smoother, cleaner and much quieter on the road.

Davenport chipped in with a $895.000 city fund, and it received a $295,567 additional federal grant, $160,000 MidAmerican Energy grant, and a regional Development Authority grant for $25,000 — bringing the total to $6.25 million.

Drivers notice immediate differences

Angela Lacy, who has driven city buses for 13 years, said the electric buses operate differently from the start.

“Starting it up, it’s just like