The Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority (The COMET) is rolling into a cleaner future with the introduction of its first zero-emission buses.
Thanks to a $2.9 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration, The COMET has added two battery-electric and two hydrogen fuel cell buses to its fleet. These new buses are currently in pilot service and are expected to be fully integrated into regular routes beginning in May.
“This is a moment of celebration for our community and a major leap forward in sustainable transit,” said Allison Terracio, Chair of The COMET Board of Directors.
The new zero-emission vehicles are projected to reduce up to 540 tons of greenhouse gas emissions each year. The initiative supports The COMET’s long-term goal of modernizing public transportation and improving air quality in the Midlands.
“This is the result of four years of strategic planning and hard work,” said Michelle Ransom, The COMET’s Grants and Regional Coordination Manager. “We’re thrilled to see our vision become reality.”
The COMET’s award under the FTA’s Low or No Emission Vehicle Program also includes funding for the charging and fueling infrastructure needed to support the new buses.
“This deployment marks a significant achievement in our transition to a more sustainable fleet,” said Maurice Pearl, Executive Director and CEO of The COMET. “We thank the FTA for its continued partnership and look forward to expanding zero-emission mobility throughout the Midlands.”
The COMET serves Richland and Lexington counties with 34 fixed routes, OnDemand and ReFlex services, UofSC Transit, and ADA transportation. It provides more than 1.8 million passenger trips each year and partners with services like Uber, Lyft, and Enterprise to support accessible, equitable transit.
For more information, visit catchthecomet.org.
