Sequatchie County Receives Grant to Expand Propane Bus Fleet

The East Tennessee Clean Fuels Coalition’s “Reducing Diesel Emissions for a Healthier Tennessee” Rebate Program is grant funding available in Tennessee to replace older, class 5-8 diesel vehicles (both on-road and nonroad) with a) new alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) that can run on propane, compressed natural gas (CNG), electricity, or that are hybrids, or b) new diesel vehicles.

During the 2025/2026 School year, The Sequatchie County School’s Transportation Department took part in a grant/rebate opportunity from East Tennessee Clean Fuels. With the assistance of Dr. Melissa Cordell, the transportation department applied for the  RDE4HT grant/rebate. This rebate saved the school system $62,000 towards the purchase of two propane fueled buses.This brings the total of three propane fueled buses to Sequatchie County roadways. The buses can be identified by the -P on their numbering or the green Bluebird bus emblem on the front top of either side of the bus. Time will tell on the future cost savings that are anticipated due to the lesser amounts of costs in parts, and service costs for these buses. The rising costs of bus purchases, parts, and fuel can be a burden to the school district’s transportation budget. We are always looking for ways to stretch tax payer dollars and give the most benefit to our students all while transporting those students safely to and from school. As always we thank the school board members for always supporting the needs of our students in what they do. Thanks to East Tennessee Clean Fuels for their partnership in this effort.

Scotty Holland
Facilities/Transportation Supervisor