Challenge
Henry County School’s concern with bus maintenance requirements led the district to replace an aging diesel fleet with emissions-reducing propane autogas.
By the Numbers
• 23 propane buses
• 7.5 percent of current fleet, with plans for an all-propane fleet in the next 10 years
• 15,000 miles per bus, per year
• 2 fuel pumps at on-site propane station
Green Initiatives
Located in the heavy traffic area of the Atlanta suburbs, Henry County Schools transports 24,000 students on about 300 routes daily. For years the district has focused on reducing its environmental impact and promoting better health for its students, an initiative that led to a 2018 “Green Ribbon School” award from the Department of Education. The district’s board of education decided to take a closer look at alternatively fueled school buses after realizing the complex parts and extensive maintenance required to meet emission standards with its diesel buses. Another incentive came from a district financial
policy. “Our superintendent is very intentional, making sure any transportation department savings go back into student education, equipment and the purchase of more buses for future use,” said Cliff Shearouse, Henry County School’s transportation director. The district first purchased 14 gasoline-powered buses, then made the move in 2019 to propane models. Click here to read the full case study.