LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Candace Carlisle lives in Clarksville and rides Transit Authority of River City (TARC) buses 71 and 72.
Like many other riders, she's still trying to get used to the new service reductions that started last month.
"I've cried sometimes because I can't get to where I need to and then I have to walk like 40 blocks," said Carlisle.
Despite the service cuts, TARC has six operational electric buses.
The transit system will receive just over $3 million dollars from the Federal Transit Administration in the next few years to buy a new fleet of electric buses.
"I guess some of the buses need replaced but I feel like they can use that to fix the scheduling issue," Carlisle said.
Three new zero emission buses are expected to be bought with the federal grant money. They'll be on the road by 2026.
It's money that can't be used to pay for daily operations.
"Federal money for transit comes specifically for replacing buses but it can't be used for putting service on the street," said Alex Posorkse, marketing and communications director at TARC.
Posorske explained if new buses aren't bought every so often it leads to bigger problems with it's fleet.
The buses also help produce cleaner air.
"We're able to do our part to make sure Louisville residents can breathe a little easier," Posorske said.
Leila Ellington is another frequent TARC rider. She's for anything that makes the buses run faster, so if that means new electric buses, it's a win for her.
"I love it because I want to get on a bus quickly I don't like waiting for hours," said Ellington.
On the other hand, Carlisle is more concerned about the service reductions.
"Like honestly, I don't think we need three new buses, I think that we need our scheduling fixed," she said.
The electric buses that TARC currently has are charged with chargers in the field.
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