CityBus is continuing its efforts to become more sustainable in the coming years. Officials with the transit service are tweaking the transportation system’s strategic plan, which now runs through 2020.
The new document includes a provision for looking into different fuel options, including compressed natural gas.
General Manager Marty Sennett says there are a number of things to consider when crafting a strategic plan.
"We're just looking to get a roadmap in place where we can take steps to lower our cost, both on the capital side and the operating side, so that we can be more sustainable, we don't have to cut service or inconvenience people. So if we can maintain what we have, I think that's a good goal to have."
CityBus board members also approved a contract to buy fuel for 2013. The service is set to buy 300,000 gallons at a price of roughly $3.07 per gallon, which is slightly less expensive than this year.
Sennett says the bids were better than he had anticipated.
"Prices came down, then they shot back up as most motorists know. So I was expecting a lot higher pricing. But when I saw just under $3.07 a gallon for number two diesel, I'm sure my eyes lit up like a Christmas tree."
The 300,000 gallons purchased represents 75% of the service’s fuel for 2013. Sennett says fuel prices are hard to predict, but this rate is 18 cents per gallon lower than the amount CityBus had initially budgeted.
In addition, CityBus officials adopted a Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for 2013. The TIP includes plans for bus engine repairs and other maintenance, as well as funding options for compressed natural gas buses. After it receives the approval of the Tippecanoe County Area Plan Commission and state officials, the service will be able to apply for federal funds.