This past week, the California State Transportation Agency announced that the transportation organization will receive a $53.3 million grant through its Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP). A few days later, Big Blue Bus (BBB) stated its plans to open a new off-leash dog run at its 1660 7th Street headquarters.
The TIRCP grant will fund initiatives that will enable BBB to meet statewide greenhouse gas reduction goals, as well as advance the City of Santa Monica’s Sustainable & Connected goals.
Last April, BBB was awarded $22.9 million in TIRCP funds to purchase five battery electric buses and complete three phases of its electrification master plan.
Of the $53.3 million, approximately $35.5 million will go toward completing phased implementation of the electrification master plan, while a little over $17.3 million will enable the purchase of 73 battery electric buses. The remaining $406,405 will provide workforce development to operate infrastructure improvements.
"We are thrilled that the state is investing in our project to expand Big Blue Bus service and complete our conversion to a 100 percent battery electric, zero-emissions fleet," Santa Monica DOT Director Anuj Gupta said. "This funding will enhance our ability to deliver sustainable transit service — reducing emissions and congestion, and connecting our community to opportunity."
The BBB Fleet Electrification Master Plan is a seven-phase strategy from the organization to transition from a renewable natural gas fleet to a 100% zero-emissions fleet by 2031.
Along with the purchase of the 73 zero-emission buses, the plan implements electric utility and charging equipment upgrades at the 6th and Colorado BBB depot. This implementation involves constructing a large canopy with overhead reel charging dispensers, fully charging an electric bus in about four hours. Last April’s TIRCP funds were able to get BBB through Phases 2, 3 and 4 of the Master Plan.
Grant money will also go toward improving Route 2 service on Wilshire Blvd, connecting the route to Metro Los Angeles’s D Line at two stations once the rail line is fully extended to the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Medical Center in 2027.
"These funds will deliver tangible improvements for Big Blue Bus riders, enhance the social and economic well-being of the communities we serve, and provide a world-class transit experience for major regional events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games," Gupta added.
Back at headquarters, BBB will be hosting a free community event on November 9 to celebrate the grand opening of its new off-leash dog run, Little Blue Dog Run. The project, a collaboration between BBB, the City’s Public Works Department, general contractor Ramco and architect SWA Group; will revitalize an area next to BBB headquarters as a green space for the community.
The dog run will include fenced exercise areas for all sizes of dogs, dog drinking fountains, trees and a picnic area with seating.
"This project aligns with our mission to improve the lives of those we serve by promoting connection, access, and mobility, while also contributing to a clean and safe Santa Monica," Gupta said. "It transforms a busy Big Blue Bus stop and layover, served by three routes, into a dynamic community gathering space designed to enhance safety for our riders and staff through the installation of improved lighting and additional security cameras along the entire block."
For more information about the Little Blue Dog Run opening, visit santamonica.gov/events.
thomas@smdp.com
