BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Two local bus services are upgrading their fleets thanks to a new round of federal funding.

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced on Thursday, Nov. 20 that it’s investing $2 billion to modernize and lower emissions at hundreds of bus stations across the country.

Washington was awarded eight of the grants, including one for WTA and another for Skagit Transit.

“WTA is thankful for this opportunity to improve the safety and reliability of our service while also lowering our carbon emissions,” said Whatcom Transportation Authority Board Chairperson and Ferndale City Council Member Ali Hawkinson. “This funding represents an important win for our riders, for our entire community, and for our environment.”

WTA received nearly $17 million to replace its aging diesel buses with hybrid models.

WTA Board member Ali Hawkinson says the upgrades will help improve safety and reliability of its services, while also lowering carbon emissions.

Skagit Transit also got just over $9 million to expand its fleet of paratransit vehicles and buy eight larger, coach buses.