The Santa Monica Department of Transportation has broken ground on a new electric bus depot thanks to a 56 million USD investment in the transition to zero-emission vehicles.
The project centres on the expansion of the city’s Big Blue Bus system and is largely funded through a 53.3 million USD grant from the State of California’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Programme.
The funding marks a step in the agency’s plan to transition its fleet to zero-emission vehicles. Construction has begun within 18 months of the grant being secured.
Plans include the installation of an overhead gantry charging system designed to support up to 195 buses. The system is intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve local air quality and update transit operations.
Santa Monica Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said:This project represents more than an infrastructure investment—it’s a transformation of how we deliver transit service. We’re building the foundation for a cleaner, more efficient system that benefits our riders, our workforce and our community. With strong partnerships and a clear roadmap, Big Blue Bus is well positioned to deliver a fully zero-emission system.
The project also includes provisions for employment and training. Construction, engineering and electrical work linked to the development are expected to support job creation, while training programmes aim to prepare workers for roles in clean energy and vehicle electrification.
Big Blue Bus currently operates 34 battery-electric buses. Further vehicle procurement is planned, with the agency working towards a fully zero-emission fleet by 2032.
