Published: June 12, 2009 11:06 pm      

Clinton in line to get five buses

CLINTON — Clinton could be getting five new buses through federal stimulus dollars to replace some of its older buses.

The city has applied for $1.6 million in federal funding to purchase three 30-foot buses and two 35-foot buses that may be operational next year.

“They're up to date to new modern standards and EPA requirements,” said Municipal Transit Administration mechanic Gary Paysen.

The five new heavy-duty buses are in addition to the two buses the city purchased with its own money last week. Clinton uses 12 buses for all of its routes.

The three 30-foot buses will cost $986,000 and the two 35-foot buses will cost $679,334.

Paysen said the new buses will have better gas mileage and be more environmentally friendly than the older ones. He added the city currently has a bus that’s 32 years old.

Until they arrive though, the city will have to work with what it has.

“We have a wonderful MTA department that will make do and get the best that we can,” said Clinton Mayor Rodger Holm.

The MTA collects fares from people who ride its buses. They can be collected in single cash fares or through monthly ride passes.

Students, who show a valid school identification card, and individuals more than 60 years old can ride the bus for free. Free rides for those 60 and older are available 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. during the week.