HART, the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority, has received its largest-ever federal grant—more than $32 million from the Federal Transit Administration—to replace aging diesel buses with low-emission compressed natural gas (CNG) models.

The grant funds the replacement of 33 diesel buses, some carrying nearly 700,000 miles, with CNG buses to cut emissions, improve reliability, and provide a more comfortable ride for riders.

This funding marks the largest Florida grant among the cycle's more than 150 federal awards, underscoring its significance for the region.

Local impact includes better air quality and cleaner rides in the Tampa Bay area, highlighted by U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor and riders like Jayla Middletown, who cannot drive due to medical reasons.

Beyond environmental and operational gains, the grant will expand training partnerships to address the nationwide technician shortage.

HART projects the move to CNG will save over $1 million annually in maintenance costs and reduce delays, boosting on-time performance.

Officials emphasize that maintenance savings and fewer breakdowns will translate into more reliable service.

Castor notes the funding will expand access to jobs, support local businesses, and reduce traffic by delivering reliable transit and modern buses.

Riders report noticeable improvements in comfort, cleanliness, and quieter operation with the new CNG buses, including less exhaust odor.

The grant stands as HART’s mark as the largest Florida grant in the current cycle, aligning with a national push that awarded more than 150 grants.

The federal initiative aligns with a broader effort as the FTA distributed over 150 grants nationwide in this cycle, with HART's award leading Florida.

HART is about 75% through its fleet conversion to natural gas and aims to complete the transition in 2026, potentially making Florida’s first fully CNG fixed-route fleet.

The grant accelerates the plan to convert the entire fixed-route fleet to CNG, a project already three-quarters complete and targeted for completion next year.

The program includes expanding technician training and apprenticeship opportunities to address nationwide shortages of qualified bus mechanics.