East St. Louis School District marks next phase in electric bus project
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. (First Alert 4) - The East St. Louis School District is marking the next phase in its electric school bus project.
On Thursday, the district will host a community event to celebrate the progress of the initiative, which will highlight the construction of a new depot to 25 electric school buses and chargers. The money for the project was awarded through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program.
“We are proud to roll out 25 new electric school buses for regular routes this coming school year—an investment in both the health of our students and our community,” said Arthur R. Culver, Superintendent of East St. Louis School District 189. “Our students deserve clean, safe, and modern transportation. These electric buses reduce harmful air pollution, reflect our commitment to safety, and help ensure that every child arrives at school ready to learn and thrive.” Culver added, “This is an exciting step forward for student wellness and a cleaner, healthier future for East St. Louis.”
The initiative is part of a close partnership with North American Central School Bus, which will operate and maintain the buses, and Highland Electric Fleets, which will manage the charging infrastructure and long-term electrification .
The NAC depot in Caseyville will serve as the operational hub for the fleet.
The electric fleet will add to the district’s existing 80-bus operation that serves students across seven schools.
Thursday’s event is scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Illinois Central School Bus Garage at 8203 Bunkum Road in Caseyville.
Copyright 2025 KMOV. All rights reserved.
