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The federal government has awarded a $9.3 million grant to Centro for purchasing nine custom-designed buses for two planned bus rapid transit (BRT) lines in Syracuse, set to launch in 2028. This funding is part of a larger $35 million redesign of public transportation in the area, aimed at improving service for low-income riders.

The new BRT lines will form an X-shape across the city, facilitating faster travel to key destinations such as downtown Syracuse, Destiny USA, and local colleges. The buses will operate on compressed natural gas and will run every 12 to 15 minutes along existing streets.

Infrastructure improvements will include new curb cuts and larger bus shelters. The grant was announced by U.S. Rep. John Mannion, with support from Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, as part of a broader initiative for cleaner emission buses in New York State.