The Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) board unanimously approved the purchase of at least 300 new buses as part of CTA’s bus fleet modernization initiative announced by Mayor Rahm Emanuel and CTA President Forrest Claypool in June 2012.

The board approved a contract with Nova Bus that allows for the purchase of at least 300 buses and as many as 450 clean diesel buses that will provide customers with a more comfortable and reliable ride.

With a standard useful life of 12 years, the 484 6400-series Nova buses that were purchased by CTA between 2000-2002 will be gradually replaced with the new, standard 40-foot, low-floor, clean diesel buses following delivery of a prototype in December with full-production expected to begin in February 2014.

The new 37-seat buses will feature fare collection equipment for CTA’s new Ventra fare payment system (to launch this summer), LED lighting, multiple security cameras and improved fuel economy. The buses will be in compliance with the latest EPA emissions standards and will meet and exceed all current ADA requirements, including two mobility device securement locations and an all-electric ramp with a decreased slope when deployed for easier access.

The contract was awarded to Nova Bus following a competitive bid process. According to the terms of agreement, CTA will purchase a minimum of 300 buses at an amount not to exceed $148 million, with an option to purchase up to 150 additional buses following Board approval. Funding for the purchase is a combination of mostly federal formula funds and CTA bond proceeds.