SAN BERNARDINO--A new generation of Omnitrans buses is taking to the streets of the San Bernardino Valley.

Twenty-seven new buses operate on clean-burning compressed natural gas. CNG buses produce 87 percent less smog-forming emissions than conventional diesel buses.

The Canadian-made 40-seat buses cost $525,500 each. The “low-floor” models offer level boarding, bike racks and accommodations for wheel chairs.

Meantime, The U.S. Department of Transportation has granted nearly $21 million to help San Bernardino County buy equipment for the Omnitrans bus system and build a transit center in Yucaipa.

About 50,000 passengers ride Omnitrans buses daily.

Story Date: August 4, 2009