Phoenix Valley Metro announced it is adding a five-year base quantity of 187 buses, which will include 30-foot compressed natural gas (CNG), 40-foot CNG and diesel, and 60-foot CNG vehicles from both ENC (formerly ElDorado) and New Flyer. There is also an option to purchase up to another 109 heavy duty buses.

The purchase is part of a joint regional procurement with the city of Phoenix, which allows a five-year regional acquisition.

“Replacing older fleet is key to keeping our service efficient and more comfortable for our riders,” said Scott Smith, Valley Metro CEO. “With new technology and aerodynamic styling, we believe we can attract a new generation of riders to public transit.”

Passenger comfort features include an upgraded air conditioning system and a new type of transmission for smoother shifting. An enhanced electronic fan system will provide improved engine performance, especially on summer’s hottest days. To support security efforts, high definition cameras will be on board each new bus.

At their June meeting, the Valley Metro Board of Directors gave the approval to execute contracts with ENC and New Flyer for the manufacture and delivery of fleet. Total cost of the purchase is $169.7 million. All vehicles are funded by Federal Transit Administration and a half-cent sales tax that funds the Regional Transportation Plan in Maricopa County, which was approved by voters in 2004.