Brownsville City Manager Helen Ramirez provides an update on transportation initiatives

BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS - Following hot on the heels of the announcement that Avelo Airlines is going to fly nonstop from Brownsville to Las Vegas, the Rio Grande Valley’s largest city has received more good transportation news.The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has awarded Brownsville a $4.7 million grant for the replacement of six diesel buses with battery-powered electric buses. Brownsville City Manager Helen Ramirez said the grant will facilitate the procurement of six battery-powered electric buses. These more advanced buses will provide a quieter, smoother ride and experience for residents, she explained.“This grant represents a significant step towards the City's commitment to reduce its carbon footprint and provide cleaner, more efficient public transportation,” said Brownsville City Manager Helen Ramirez.“BMetro is the largest transit provider in the RGV serving over one million riders annually including high school, UTRGV and TSC students.”In an exclusive interview with the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service, Ramirez also spoke about a decision by Brownsville City Commission to approve a $31 Million Certificate of Obligation Issuance.Editor's Note: Go to the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service to read the full story.Go to www.riograndeguardian.com to read the latest border news stories and watch the latest news videos.