COLUMBIA, MD - From Howard County Government: Howard County Executive Allan H. Kittleman today announced that seven new transit buses will be introduced to serve Howard County through the Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) of Central Maryland. These seven buses will replace seven older buses in the fleet.

"Through thoughtful planning over the past three years by my administration, we are now starting to see the results of an improved fleet," said Kittleman. "With more than 60% of bus riders using this service to get to work, there is strong economic benefit in ensuring we provide a reliable transit service." These seven 2017 El Dorado EZ-Rider II buses will have a significant positive impact to Howard County's transit system by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reducing maintenance costs and providing more reliable and comfortable service. These seven new buses will join 11 additional new buses that were added to the fleet this past summer. The buses put into service during the summer included the county's first electric buses.

"A more reliable fleet, coupled with the better route structure we are planning, will transform our transit system into one of choice that will be a greater asset for our community," Kittleman said. "Since taking office, we have taken strategic steps to upgrade the quality of our fleet to deliver a more efficient and enjoyable rider experience and we will continue to do so moving forward." In November, Howard County commissioned six more buses that will be in service in Fall 2018.

"Howard County has been a strong leader in improving the RTA from the beginning," said Cristin Tolen, RTA General Manager. "By investing in new buses, Howard County is building a modern and dependable transit system that delivers the type of service our community expects and deserves." Video of Executive Kittleman discussing transit fleet improvements can be found at https://youtu.be/Y8j4mQX9gdU.

Photos of the new buses can be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/hocogov/albums/72157661736435787.