Princeton Schools Rolls Out 2 Electric Buses in Push For Sustainable Transportation

PRINCETON, NJ - Princeton Public Schools has added two electric school buses to its fleet, marking a significant step in the district's commitment to sustainable transportation.

The buses began service in September, serving Community Park Elementary School and Littlebrook Elementary School, including stops at Princeton Charter School.

Each route covers approximately 40 miles daily, allowing the district to evaluate performance and gather efficiency data while maintaining reliable service.

Students have already noticed the difference. "I like how quiet the bus is," said Maya, a fourth grader at Community Park Elementary. "Now I can read my book on the way to school without getting distracted."

Sam, a fifth grader at Littlebrook Elementary, said, "It feels good knowing our bus is better for the Earth. I told my parents we should think about an electric car too!"

The buses are powered by a dual-port Level III DC fast charger, which provides rapid charging and operational flexibility. A Level II charger, donated by the New Jersey Clean Cities Coalition earlier this summer, serves as backup for the buses and potential future electrification of maintenance vehicles.

"We are proud to take this important step toward sustainable student transportation," said Mike LaSusa, Superintendent of Princeton Public Schools. "These electric buses not only reduce emissions and improve local air quality, but also reflect our district's ongoing commitment to student well-being and environmental stewardship."

The transition was funded through a grant of up to $680,000 from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for the two buses, plus up to $100,000 from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities for charging infrastructure.

"This has been years in the making, so I'm thrilled that the state offers support for this transition and that the district was ready to take this step," said Jenny Ludmer, Program Manager of Sustainable Princeton, who assists the district with sustainability initiatives. "I hope this is the start of enhanced fleet electrification for the district."

The initiative builds on the district's ongoing sustainability efforts, including energy efficiency upgrades, greener cleaning equipment, and environmental education programs.

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