Sales tax vote will determine hybrid bus future in Miami
There's a lot of value in a penny. At least, there could be if citizens in Broward county, Florida vote tomorrow to approve a one-cent sales tax increase. The revenue from the increase – expected to be $260 million a year – would go towards transportation projects. This includes purchasing about 500 new diesel-electric hybrid buses, starting within the next two years. The hybrids would replace the 260 current diesel buses and expand the fleet to keep up with the city's growing population. The hybrid buses are cleaner than standard buses, but are not cheap at $521,000 a piece. Aside from the buses, money raised from the tax would also be used to synchronize traffic signals and other transportation improvements. While the upfront cost of the buses if high, advocates say the long-term fuel saving will be "substantial". The hybrid buses get 20 miles per gallon, while standard diesel buses get seven to eight. [Source: Miami Herald / Trenton Daniel]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Phil L. 10:30AM (11/06/2006)
Hmmmm -
If all the "advocates" can come up with is "substantial", that must mean the fuel savings doesn't actually offset the purchase cost difference during the expected life of the vehicle. If that's true, I wish they'd at least be honest about it.
Or maybe I'm at wits end after a month of political bombardment. It'll all be over after tomorrow!
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emulous1974 9:26AM (11/07/2006)
I appreciate you bringing us this story, but there are some errors and omissions that don't paint a clear picture.
Miami is not in Broward County, there is a reason that Dade County officially changed it's name to Miami-Dade County over a decade ago.
Both Miami-Dade and Broward counties already have much different sales tax rates, stating what the current rates are would be helpful.
Otherwise, interesting to see how communities are dealing with their busses and the enviornoment.
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