ELK GROVE UNVEILS NEW HYBRID–ELECTRIC BUSES
Environmentally-friendly transit fleet will offer greater comfort, convenience

ELK GROVE, CA – The City of Elk Grove geared up for the January launch of its new transit service, e-tran, by showcasing one of its new remanufactured gasoline hybrid-electric powered buses.

"Elk Grove is the first city in the United States to have a hybrid-electric commuter bus fleet," said Elk Grove City Manager John Danielson. "We are proud to offer residents a service that is not only environmentally-friendly, but will allow riders to travel in comfort and enjoy the numerous amenities in which these buses are equipped."

Remanufactured buses utilize "green" energy efficient technology. The e-tran buses use elements of recycling: they are stripped down to their bare frame, receive structural repairs, and are then rebuilt from scratch. The buses' gasoline hybrid system, using an ultra-low emission engine, produces nearly zero particle matter and exceeds state and federal environmental standards.

"The California Environmental Protection Agency's mission is to restore, protect and enhance the environment, to ensure public health and environmental quality," said California Environmental Protection Agency Secretary Terry Tamminen. "Elk Grove is helping the state fulfill that mission with its new gasoline hybrid-electric commuter buses."

E-tran buses also have features for a more enjoyable commute. The buses will have wireless Internet connection, plush airline-style reclining seats, eight television screens with real-time satellite news broadcasts, and parcel racks with individual reading lamps.

"Whether residents need to catch up on work, the latest news, or some relaxation, our new buses cater to their every need," added Danielson.

Elk Grove first considered operating its own transit service after conducting a jointly-funded study with Sacramento Regional Transit District (RT). With the City having more control over transit services, it can reinvest cost savings in the system to increase travel options, ease traffic congestion and cater services to the specific needs of the riders.

The City of Elk Grove will formally launch its new transit service on January 2, 2005.

CONTACT: Michelle Smira
916-683-7111

October 14, 2004

BREAKING NEWS
SPECIAL HEALTH STATEMENT ISSUED BY AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

(Sacramento, CA) -- A series of fires burning in the Sierra Nevada have caused smoke in the Sacramento region, impacting visibility. Ash from the fires has also been reported falling in various parts of the region.

Initially this morning, the elevation of the smoke has been well above ground level in the Sacramento area, but there is a chance the smoke could mix down to ground level later in the day due to changes in surface temperature and wind patterns.

Though particulate readings at our air monitoring stations are not currently at risk levels, due to the uncertainty of weather conditions the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District is advising residents to minimize outdoor activity.

In particular, strenuous, sustained outdoor activity should be curtailed, in order to avoid the possibility of breathing in elevated levels of particles that could be present in areas impacted by the smoke. (Posted at 9:42 a.m.)

Additional information will be released if conditions change

Placer County Air Pollution Control District Releases Rail Yard Study Findings

The Placer County Air Pollution Control District today released findings of a study conducted by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) regarding airborne particulate matter emissions from diesel-fueled locomotives at the Union Pacific J.R. Davis Yard located in Roseville, California. The study is based upon locomotive emissions activity that occurred there from 1999 to 2000.

The computer modeling study was conducted by the California Air Resources Board at the request of the Placer County Air Pollution Control District in response to area residents' concerns and the identification by ARB of diesel particulate matter as a 'toxic air contaminant.' The Union Pacific Railroad Company (UPRR) assisted in the study by providing extensive information on facility operations and emissions.

The study results indicate there are elevated concentrations of diesel particulate matter and associated cancer risk impacting a large area surrounding the rail yard. This conclusion is typical for large transportation facilities such as rail yards, ports and major freeway corridors.

"The magnitude of the risk, general location of the risk and the size of the area impacted varies depending on the modeling assumptions used. The risk is based upon an assumed constant exposure over a 70-year period," said Tom Christofk, Air Pollution Control Officer, Placer County Air Pollution Control District.

"The District requested this study on behalf of Placer County residents to ascertain the levels of diesel emissions from the rail yard and their relative impact," Christofk stated. "We will use this study to continue working with UPRR on ways to reduce diesel emissions from the rail yard." The District also plans to develop an air-monitoring program, and may request further health analyses.

The District has been in discussions with UPRR regarding an emission reduction plan, but does not have a binding agreement in place for emission reduction targets.

The results of this study were calculated, analyzed and prepared as a Health Risk Assessment report and submitted to the Placer County Air Pollution Control District. The study is based on computer modeling and did not include any on-site air quality monitoring or real-time air quality measurements at the rail yard.

Results from the ARB study include:

• About 25 tons of diesel particulate matter emissions came from locomotive operations at the yard in 2000.
• Moving locomotives account for about 50 percent of these emissions, idling locomotives account for about 45 percent and locomotive testing accounts for about five percent.
• There is a varying degree of elevated cancer risk associated with the emissions from the rail yard depending on length of exposure and proximity to the yard.

"Placer County Health and Human Services continues to work closely with state public health experts to evaluate the potential health impacts of the air pollution modeling study of the Union Pacific Rail Yard recently conducted by the California Air Resources Board," stated Placer County Health Officer Richard J. Burton, M.D., M.P.H. "While the study indicates increased levels of particulate matter air pollution in the air surrounding the rail yard in Roseville, with some exceptions, the general levels of air pollution and resulting health impacts are less than or the same as what is found in most of California's major urban areas."

Dr. Burton noted that the study indicates an elevated cancer risk, relative to the existing background risks from air pollution, due to long-term exposure to diesel engine exhaust from the rail yard; and that the Placer County Air Pollution Control District is working with Union Pacific Railroad to reduce the exposure and resulting risks.

According to Dr. Burton, reducing emissions from the facility is the most effective way to protect public health. "There are no practical personal protective measures recommended for healthy individuals," noted Dr. Burton. "Individuals with unique sensitivities such as those with chronic lung disease or asthma may want to consider indoor air filtering systems such as those described on the California Air Resources Board web site."

• Air Resources Board Web Site
• Indoor Air Quality information on air cleaners

He also noted that in addition to cancer risks from diesel particulate matter, there are non-cancer health effects of particulate matter air pollution including exacerbations of existing heart and lung disease. Following consultation with the California Department Heath Services and the California

Environmental Protection Agency, Dr. Burton suggests that residents continue to use routine air pollution Air Quality Index advisories as their guide for understanding potential health impacts of an immediate nature (such as asthma attacks) related to air pollution.

The J.R. Davis Rail Yard has been operating in Roseville since 1905. The yard occupies about 950 acres, on a one-quarter mile wide by four-mile long strip of land that parallels Interstate 80. Approximately two-thirds of the rail yard is located in Placer County with the remaining one-third in Sacramento County.

About 31,000 locomotives visited the rail yard in 2000. Another 15,000 locomotives used the Northside Tracks (pass-through trains) during this same period. While Union Pacific has the youngest locomotive fleet in North America, locomotives have very large diesel-fueled engines that can last about 30 to 40 years. The U.S. EPA has imposed new emissions rules that will require about a two-thirds reduction in locomotive emissions in the future.

"Rail transportation is by far the most environmentally friendly method of efficiently transporting large amounts of freight across America," said Robert Grimaila, Sr. Assistant Vice President; Safety, Environmental and Security Practices for Union Pacific. "Over the past several years, Union Pacific has made significant strides in reducing emissions throughout our system. With improved technology and successful pilot programs, we believe we have been able to reduce emissions at our J.R. Davis Yard by about 15 percent since 2000. We intend to work closely with Tom Christofk and his colleagues at the Placer County Air Pollution Control District to continue this progress."

The Placer County Air Pollution Control District will conduct two public meetings about the study results. Staff from the California Air Resources Board and Union Pacific Railroad Company will join in presenting information and answering questions during these public meetings:

• Saturday, Oct. 16, 2004 - 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Placer County Fairgrounds - Lauppe Hall (800 All American City, Roseville)
• Monday, Oct. 18, 2004 - 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Placer County Fairgrounds - Lauppe Hall (800 All American City, Roseville)
  

Jamie Arno
Communications & Marketing Specialist
Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District
(916) 874-4812

September 29, 2004

AQMD Commends City Council Anti-Idling Action

The Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (AQMD) commends the action taken yesterday by the Sacramento City Council to enact an anti-idling ordinance within the city.

The new ordinance will prohibit heavy-duty on-road vehicles (over 14,000 pounds) and off-road construction and commercial equipment (over 50 horsepower) from idling more than five minutes at one time.

Emissions from diesel trucks are known to increase air pollution and contribute to serious health problems, including cancer.

"Sacramento has some of the worst air quality in the nation," said Councilmember Dave Jones, who introduced the ordinance and also serves on the AQMD Board. "Our newly-adopted engine idling ordinance will make it possible for all of us to breathe easier, including small children whose lungs are most susceptible to irreparable damage from air pollution according to recently released studies".

The anti-idling ordinance is projected to reduce smog-forming emissions in the City of Sacramento by 1,400 pounds per day, the equivalent of removing 70,000 cars and trucks from the area.

Exemptions to the rule include:

• Idling while stopped in traffic or for engine service or inspections
• Idling during driver mandatory rest periods (except within 100 feet of a school or residence)
• Idling as needed to perform work such as, concrete mixers, operation of auxiliary equipment, or ensuring the safe loading and unloading of people or cargo
• Transport refrigeration units may be operated within 100 feet of a residence or school when unloading or loading cargo but no longer than 30 minutes prior to commencing operation

CONTACTS: AQMD Community Education Office
(916) 874-4888 (Media Line)

Councilmember Dave Jones’ Office
David Gonsalves
(916) 233-8030

July 14, 2004

AQMD Fines Dunmore Homes and Northwest Surfacing

The $150,000 settlement covers Notices of Violations (NOVs) for Rule 902 (Asbestos) and Rule 302 (Plan Fees). Specifically, the NOVs include:

• Failure to conduct an asbestos survey prior to demolition

• Failure to notify the AQMD of a demolition

• Failure to pay notification fees

A total of nine permanent buildings were located on the property and demolished without notifying the AQMD and without conducting an asbestos survey. Dunmore Homes contracted with Northwest Surfacing to remove the debris from the demolished buildings.

“There is no safe level of asbestos,” said Norm Covell, AQMD’s Air Pollution Control Officer. “It is imperative that the business community abides by District rules in order to protect the health of the residents of Sacramento County.”

CONTACT: Kerry Shearer/Jamie Arno
AQMD Community Education Office
(916) 874-4888 (Media Line)

June 24, 2004

Larry Greene Appointed Air Pollution Control Officer for Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District

The Board of Directors of the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District is pleased to announce the appointment today of Larry Greene as the District’s next Air Pollution Control Officer. Greene will be taking over for Norm Covell who is retiring next month following a long and distinguished career with the District and Sacramento County.

Larry Greene comes to the District with significant experience in California air quality management and extensive knowledge of Sacramento, the Sacramento Air District, and this region’s air quality issues. Greene is currently the Air Pollution Control Officer for the Yolo-Solano Air Quality Management District, a role he has held since 1996. In this capacity Greene is already active in the Sacramento region having served as a key partner in numerous organizations including the Cleaner Air Partnership, the American Lung Association, the Sacramento Valley Basin Control Council Technical Advisory Committee, Walk Sacramento, and the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. Greene is also currently serving his second term as President of the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association.

Greene previously served 23 years in the United States Army, retiring in 1995 as a Lieutenant Colonel. He held multiple functional assignments in human resources, budget and financial management, information management, and logistics. Greene holds a Master of Science degree in Logistics Management from Florida Institute of Technology, a Ed. Masters degree in Human Services and Human Resource Education from Boston University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Science Education from North Carolina State University.

The Air Pollution Control Officer leads a District staff of 83 and manages a $19 million current annual budget conducting a variety of programs that, in cooperation with local business, public health and non-profit organizations, government and individual citizens, work to achieve and maintain healthy air quality for Sacramento. Greene was selected from 27 candidates in a national search conducted for the District by CPS Executive Search of Sacramento.

Greene, who resides in Davis, expects to assume his new position on July 26, 2004 at a starting monthly salary of $10,238.

June 15, 2004

Governor Schwarzenegger announces smog reduction strategy

(Sacramento) -- Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has announced a smog reduction strategy that will dedicate $67.8 million annually to improve air quality while lowering overall consumer costs for smog check requirements. The proposal, announced June 15, is part of the Governor's proposed budget plan currently making its way through the Legislature.

"This is an aggressive step toward our goal of greatly reducing air pollution in California," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "This plan cuts costs to consumers and relieves them from the burden of unnecessary smog checks while improving air quality for all Californians by reducing harmful emissions from high-polluting diesel engines."

The proposal restructures funding from California's Smog Check Program to dedicate $61 million annually to the Carl Moyer Memorial Air Quality Standards Attainment Program. The Moyer program uses grants to help owners of old, high-polluting diesel engines upgrade to those powered by compressed natural gas, electricity or clean-running diesel. Older diesel trucks continue to be a major source of air pollution as are emissions from heavy-duty diesel vehicles and equipment. Funding for the Carl Moyer Program would come through an adjustment to the smog abatement fee, raising it from $6 to $12 per year.

To more than offset the proposed fee adjustments, owners of new cars would be exempt from getting their vehicles smog checked for up to six years, instead of the present four. In addition, proof of a smog check would no longer be required for the sale of vehicles four years old or newer. With today's automobile manufacturing standards, new cars up to six years old rarely fail smog checks.

By extending the smog check exemption for two additional years for new cars and no longer requiring proof of a smog check for the sale of vehicles four years old or newer, consumers will experience net savings of approximately $48.5 million annually.

In addition to securing permanent financing for the Carl Moyer program, the Governor's plan to cut air pollution will include an additional $6.8 million per year to support the Bureau of Automotive Repair's effort to retire gross-polluting vehicles and provide assistance for low income families to help with smog-related vehicle repairs.

California Environmental Protection Agency Secretary Terry Tamminen said, "The Carl Moyer Program has proven to be one of the most effective programs available to immediately reduce air pollution. This investment is a down payment on improving air quality for all Californians."

Since its inception in 1998, funds from the Moyer program have been used to convert nearly 5000 engines statewide. Between 1998 and 2002, the program is credited with cutting 4650 tons per year of nitrogen oxide emissions from California's air. The proposed changes to the Moyer Program will cut nitrogen oxide emissions by an additional six tons per day.

The Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District said the announcement is great news. "It's a welcome relief to know this program will continue, because our Moyer account was about to run out of fuel," said AQMD spokesman Kerry Shearer. "We've depended on these funds over the past five years to help us achieve immediate emission reductions from heavy duty vehicles operating in the Sacramento Region. The 10.7-million we received for this program over the past five years has allowed us to do 954 separate projects. Some of the projects we've done include: replacing or repowering high-polluting off-road agriculture and construction equipment such tractors, pumps and bulldozers; purchase of compressed natural gas and clean diesel-powered school buses; and replacing the engines of heavy-duty on-road trucks with cleaner-burning engines."

Shearer said because of the Sacramento region's severe air quality problem, there isn't time to wait years for new federal engine standards to roll in and for emissions benefits to trickle down to our region. He said that diesel engines can last for over 30 years and the region needs the emissions reductions now, so without a program to upgrade existing engines to the newest technology, old engines would continue to pollute. Shearer said the Moyer program has been very successful in the Sacramento region, allowing us to achieve more than 950 tons per year of NOx emission reductions and 83 tons per year of PM-10 particle pollution. (Posted 6/15/04)

April 15, 2004

Sacramento region receives new attainment date of 2013 for 8-hour ozone standard

Part or all of 474 counties nationwide are in nonattainment for either failing to meet the 8-hour ozone standard or for causing a downwind county to fail. The vast majority of counties, 2,668 in all, meet the new standards.

Ozone aggravates asthma, damages the lining of the lungs and makes breathing more difficult. Some 159 million people live in areas that do not meet the new ozone standard.

At the same time it issued designations on attainment and nonattainment, EPA issued a new rule classifying areas by the severity of their ozone conditions and establishing the deadline state and local governments must meet to reduce ozone levels. Once designations and classifications take effect on June 15, 2004, states and communities must prepare a plan to reduce ground-level ozone.

EPA Administrator Mike Leavitt stressed that the new ozone designations do not represent failure. "This isn't about the air getting dirtier," he said. "The air is getting cleaner. These new rules are about our new understanding of health threats; about our standards getting tougher and our national resolve to meet them."

Many states received good news; 18 entire states are meeting the new more protective standard. EPA finds no nonattainment areas in the northwest or in many of the Great Plains, Rocky Mountain and Great Basin states. The entire population in Iowa, Minnesota, Florida, Mississippi, Vermont, Hawaii and Alaska are breathing air that meets the new standard.

Measures that states and localities may be required to take to control ozone pollution may include stricter controls on emissions from industrial facilities, additional planning requirements for transportation sources or other programs like gasoline vapor recovery controls. EPA plans to work with states and local governments to help develop innovative approaches to meeting the new standard.

A nonattainment designation does not mean that an area must curb its growth nor does it mean the loss of highway funds - two common myths associated with ozone designation.

"These ozone standards are strong medicine," Administrator Leavitt wrote the governors. "As a former Governor of Utah, I recognize that having parts of your state designated as being in nonattainment will require more actions on your part to achieve cleaner, healthier air. We need to work together to make certain your state can, as others have in the past, clean the air while sustaining economic growth."

EPA April 14 announced a suite of interrelated actions known as the Clean Air Rules of 2004 which include national tools to help states and communities meet the national standard for ground-level ozone. The Clean Air Interstate Rule addresses power plant emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), both of which blow across state lines and significantly impact pollution levels, including ozone pollution, in downwind cities. EPA's Clean Air Nonroad Diesel Rule will regulate emissions from construction and other nonroad equipment powered by diesel engines. The rule also cuts sulfur levels in diesel fuel by more than 99 percent over current levels. Both actions will significantly help localities achieve cleaner air.

Thirty areas voluntarily entered into Early Action Compacts (EACs) in 2002, agreeing to have a plan in place to reduce air pollution about two years sooner than required by the Clean Air Act. These communities have had their nonattainment status deferred as a result. These areas must attain the new ozone standard no later than December 31, 2007. Areas must submit satisfactory progress reports to retain their EAC status. Three of the original 33 EAC areas did not meet their requirements (Memphis, Knoxville and Chattanooga, Tennessee) and are no longer included in the EAC program.

The 8-hour ozone standard, 0.08 parts per million (ppm), averaged over eight hours, replaces the 1-hour standard that has been in place since 1979. The 8-hour standard was issued in 1997 after a significant body of research showed that longer-term exposure to lower levels of ozone can also affect human health. Implementation of the new standard was held up by a lengthy legal battle.

Deadlines for meeting the 8-hour ozone standard range from 2007 to 2021, depending on the severity of an area's ozone problem. For example, areas with more significant ozone problems, such as Los Angeles, may have to apply more rigorous control measures, but will have a longer time to meet the ozone standards

Ground-level ozone, a primary ingredient in smog, is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and NOx react chemically in the presence of sunlight. Car, trucks, power plants and industrial facilities are primary sources of these emissions. Ozone pollution is a concern during the summer months when the weather conditions needed to form ground-level ozone - lots of sun and hot temperatures - normally occur.

Ozone is unhealthy to breathe, especially for people with respiratory diseases and for children and adults who are active outdoors.

More information and a full listing of EPAs designations of state and tribal areas is available at: http://www.epa.gov/ozonedesignations/. Information about the Clean Air Rules of 2004 is available at: http://www.epa.gov/cleanair2004/. Information about Early Action Compacts is available at: http://www.epa.gov/air/eac/.

Sacramento becomes first U.S. city to use FedEx hybrid electric powered truck

FedEx Corp. has placed into service the first of its new low-emission hybrid-electric-powered delivery vehicles in concert with the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District, Environmental Defense and Eaton Corporation. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger attended the March 30 roll-out ceremony.

The FedEx OptiFleet E700 hybrid electric vehicle will decrease particulate emissions by 90 percent, reduce smog-causing emissions by 75 percent and travel 50 percent farther on a gallon of fuel, reducing fuel costs by one-third.

Two FedEx OptiFleet E700 hybrid electric vehicles have been tested in Sacramento since late February following an agreement with the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (AQMD) to demonstrate the commercial viability of the lower-emission powertrain in heavy-duty vehicles.

The project was made possible in part by a grant provided by the AQMD.

FedEx Express will place 18 additional hybrid electric diesel delivery trucks into service in selected cities throughout 2004. New York City, Houston, Washington, D.C., Denver and several other cities are possible locations for future rollouts of the hybrid electric trucks.

"FedEx Express is proud to be the first company to make a long-term market commitment to develop and utilize hybrid electric delivery trucks," said David J. Bronczek, president, FedEx Express.

"Utilizing innovative technologies such as our hybrid electric truck, California is yet again leading the nation in protecting the environment," Bronczek said.

"We are proud to work with FedEx Express, Environmental Defense and Eaton in bringing this advanced heavy-duty hybrid technology to Sacramento," said Norm Covell, Sacramento's Air Pollution Control Officer.

"These clean, efficient vehicles are just another example of how Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District aims to deliver healthier air to our community.

"Four years ago Environmental Defense was looking for an innovative company to help us revolutionize truck technology in the U.S. and FedEx Express accepted that challenge," said Fred Krupp, president, Environmental Defense.

"Today, these two trucks put Sacramento on the leading edge of the effort for cleaner air and better mileage.

"Environmental Defense now challenges other companies to increase their fleet's contribution to reduced air pollution, oil dependency and climate change impacts."

Cleveland, Ohio-based Eaton Corporation, one of the world's most recognized industrial manufacturers, produced the hybrid electric powertrain for the vehicle.

"Eaton is pleased to make this innovative, environmentally advanced technology available to FedEx Express and Environmental Defense for this ground-breaking project," said Jim Sweetnam, senior vice president and group executive, Eaton Corporation, Truck Group.

"Our team will continue to work closely with FedEx Express and Environmental Defense in Sacramento and additional markets as we take this innovative project to the next level."

The Sacramento region's popular annual lawn mower trade-in program sold out within 19 minutes of on-line availability March 10.

Residents of the region were invited to pre-register beginning March 10 to purchase a mower. Within 19 minutes of the opening registration, all mowers were claimed.

The Mow Down lawnmower exchange will take place Saturday, March 27 and is open only to those who preregistered. The event will be held at the Home Depot at 8000 Folsom Blvd. (cross street: Power Inn Road). The price for the new lawnmowers will be $225 plus tax. The regular retail price of the rechargeable mulching mower is $449 plus tax.

Pre-registration is now closed, and all the mowers have been claimed. Bring your registration confirmation, which you will receive by e-mail (if you signed up online) or postal mail (if you signed up by phone), your release form, and arrive at the specified time -- no need to arrive early. Old mowers need to be drained of gas and oil.

The eighth-annual event is sponsored by SMUD, Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District, Yolo/Solano Air Quality Management District, Placer County Air Pollution Control District, El Dorado Air Quality Management District, and the City and County of Sacramento.

Contact:  Kerry Shearer or Jamie Arno  (916) 874-4888

March 10, 2004

Regional Transit and City of Elk grove reach agreement

The current contract for service will be extended through January 1, 2005, and the city will be the first in the region to participate in what is being termed an expanded partnership and an alternative business model for transit service in the region.

"RT welcomes Elk Grove's continued participation in the regional transit system," said RT Board Chair Dave Jones. "To have a truly regional transit system requires the cooperation of all jurisdictions and the willingness to develop new business models like that between Elk Grove and RT."

"We are excited that we reached an agreement on this new business model for transit," said Elk Grove Mayor Sophia Scherman. "Not only will we be able to customize local services in Elk Grove for our residents, we will maintain a valuable regional partner."

The agreement comes on the heels of the January 2004 addition of the city of Rancho Cordova to the RT Board. The new accord will cover four key areas: Elk Grove acknowledges RT's ongoing role in providing regional transit services while continuing to fund its share of regional service costs; Elk Grove will retain responsibility for local service; Elk Grove will join the Regional Transit Board as a member; and the two entities will cooperate through transfer and operational agreements to provide seamless transit service for the benefit of all customers.

Contact:  Kerry Shearer or Jamie Arno  (916) 874-4888

January 5, 2004

New RT "E Bus" service begins on Stockton Blvd. in Sacramento
(Sacramento) -- On Monday, Sacramento Regional Transit inaugurated the region's first enhanced bus service that can override traffic signals at given intersections.

The Stockton Boulevard "E Bus", route 50 E, travels from the Florin Mall transit center to Downtown Sacramento and back. It runs weekdays every 15 minutes starting at 5:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m.

"In combination with the current route 51, the E Bus will provide eight buses in each direction per hour on this busy corridor," said RT Board Chair Don Nottoli. "We are excited about initiating this enhanced service in the Sacramento area and hope to expand it to other transportation corridors in our community."

The E Bus will replace the route 50, which was an express route operating during peak morning and evening commute times.

The E Bus offers passengers all day service on Stockton Boulevard and enhanced services such as fewer stops, signal priority, and reduces the travel time.

A distinctive design on buses, stops and shelters differentiates the E Bus from other RT fixed route service.

"I think the passengers will be pleased with the new service," said Dr. Beverly Scott, RT General Manager/CEO. "Many people use transit along this corridor. This addition will benefit them and the community at large."

Signal priorities have been installed at four major intersections (Broadway, 21st Street, Fruitridge, and 47th Avenue) as well as an exclusive 'queue-jump' bus lane at the intersection of Stockton Boulevard and Fruitridge Road.

A queue-jump allows the bus to move ahead of a line of traffic.

The new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses feature low floors for express boarding of passengers.

For route and schedule information call 321-BUSS, (TDD) 483-HEAR, or visit www.sacrt.com.

SMUD revs up effort to put low-emission vehicles on the road (Sacramento) -- The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) is increasing the number of low-emission and zero-emission vehicles that it uses to serve its 540,000 customers.

SMUD says that many of these cars, trucks and off-street vehicles in its fleet use the latest cost-effective technologies to reduce emissions. Some examples include: -Incorporating gasoline-electric hybrids into SMUD's fleet in 2004.

-Using ultra low sulfur diesel fuel in District vehicles.

-Installing 10 Cleaire Longview catalyst traps (emission reducing devices that go on diesel trucks) in 2003, bringing to 20 the total number of units in SMUD's fleet. Ten more are budgeted for 2004.

-Using LPG and electric forklifts and pickups.

-Modifying off highway equipment to reduce emissions

-Using re-refined motor oil in SMUD vehicles.

-Using a certified phase II vapor recovery mobile fueling truck.

-Continuing enhancement of SMUD's Rideshare program. (Awarded EPA's Best Commuter Workplace honor in 2003)

-Applying for "Clean Shop" designation. A "Clean Shop" is one that is certified as an environmentally friendly operation by the state of California.

-Revising purchasing policies so SMUD can evaluate buying vehicles based on cleaner emissions in addition to cost only.

-Exploring replacement of on-campus gasoline vehicles with "Neighborhood" electric vehicles (EVs).

In addition to the fleet program, SMUD also has an industry-leading Electric Transportation department that reaches out to commercial and residential customers.

The department is exploring Fuel Cell technologies and has put into place two pilot projects designed to help commercial customers minimize air pollution and an outreach program to create and further awareness of EVs as one solution to improve air quality:

-The Electric Forklift Incentive Program was started to help local companies replace their internal combustion engine forklifts with clean electric ones. One electric forklift can eliminate 800 pounds of NOx per year, equivalent to the emissions of 175 gas-burning cars.

-The Truck stop Electrification project, which installed 16 shore power hookups at the 49er Travel Plaza to encourage truckers to plug in rather than idle their diesel engines to power their in-cabin electrical appliances as they take a break from the road. Elimination of diesel truck idling could result in a savings of 580 lbs of NOx per year per truck, based on an 8-hour per day reduction in run time. That's equivalent to the emissions from 116 cars.

-The "Extreme High School Clean Air Challenge" is co-sponsored by SMUD in an effort to spread the word of keeping our air clean to future generations.

For more information about SMUD's clean air solutions, energy efficiency programs and renewable energy technology programs, please visit www.smud.org.

Contact:  Kerry Shearer or Jamie Arno  (916) 874-4888