U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander and Congressmen Zach Wamp and John J. Duncan, Jr., together with Knoxville’s Mayor Bill Haslam, announced today the allocation of more than $900,000 of federal funding to help purchase new hybrid-electric buses for the city of Knoxville.

The new buses will be operated by Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) on regular routes connecting downtown and the University of Tennessee campus and are an integral part of KAT's efforts to integrate clean and advanced technology into Knoxville's transit fleet.

"This news is a prime example of what can happen in the Tennessee Valley Corridor as cities and organizations begin to work together in the Clean Transportation Initiative. We are doing our part,” said Congressman Wamp. “Big steps like this are propelling us toward a more energy-secure America."

“On the first business day of this city’s administration, it is encouraging to see such a tangible sign of progress,” said Mayor Bill Haslam, who took office Saturday. “Our downtown riders will know they are using a new generation of reliable, clean and quiet vehicles. Working with Senator Lamar Alexander and Congressman Zach Wamp we hope to attract more of these kinds of projects to our area.”

“For KAT, this is not a test. Hybrid-electric buses are achieving mainstream acceptance in public transit. They offer greater fuel efficiency, lower exhaust emissions, a smoother ride and reduced maintenance costs,” said Mark Hairr, KAT general manager. "This funding will allow KAT to expand its comprehensive Clean Fuels Program and continue our commitment to improving air quality in our area."

Senator Lamar Alexander and Congressman Zach Wamp, supporters of efforts to develop and implement clean fuel initiatives, applauded the latest effort as the right step in the direction of ensuring the quality of life for the area. “This announcement, following a similar allocation recently to Sevierville, proves once again that clean air solutions and advanced technologies are ready here and now. Knoxville residents will be the early beneficiaries,” said Senator Alexander.

" I am excited that our community will begin the process of implementing the type of transit vehicles that will encourage ridership and reduce harmful pollution," stated Jimmy Duncan, Congressman for the 2nd District. "I am also pleased that our new Knoxville Mayor and our transit system are working together in the best interests of our citizens."

The Advanced Transportation Technology Institute (ATTI) of Chattanooga will manage the grant for the Federal Transit Administration. ATTI will provide technological support to Knoxville for the purchase and deployment of the hybrid-electric buses.