Austin ISD to replace 173 unair-conditioned school buses if bond approved in Nov. election
Austin Independent School District says it will replace all of its 173 unair-conditioned buses if voters approve the proposed $2.44 billion school bond package in the Nov. 8 election. (Photo: CBS Austin)
AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Independent School District says it will replace all of its 173 unair-conditioned buses if voters approve the proposed $2.44 billion school bond package in the Nov. 8 election.
In mid-August, CBS Austin reported only 60% of Austin ISD's school buses are air-conditioned. August is typically the hottest month of the year and nearly 8,000 students board them to and from school.
RELATED: Only 60% of Austin ISD school buses are air conditioned during record-setting heat
“Riding an unair-conditioned bus in the Texas heat is physically draining as well as uncomfortable,” said Kris Hafezizadeh, Austin ISD’s Executive Director of Transportation & Vehicle Services. “If voters approve this bond package, we can finally put all of our unair-conditioned buses out of commission, which is what our students and staff deserve.”
Nearly $25.74 million of the proposed bond funding would be used to buy a new bus fleet.
Comprising about 32% of the district's general education bus fleet, the new buses would enhance safety with 3-point lap shoulder belts, compared to only lap belts.
The new vehicles would also lower Austin ISD's fuel costs due to better fuel efficiency.
Austin ISD is the largest school district in Central Texas. For more information on the district, click here.