What happened and why it matters

Yesterday the city council approved a plan to replace 200 diesel buses with electric models over the next three years. The decision came after months of public hearings and a flurry of reports about air quality. For many residents the news feels like a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively. The council said the move will cut emissions by roughly 30 percent and save money on fuel in the long run. It also promises quieter streets and smoother rides. I was surprised at how quickly the vote passed, given the usual gridlock over transportation projects. It feels like a small win for people who have been complaining about the smell and noise of old buses for years. The rollout will start this summer, with the first 50 electric buses hitting the streets in September.