First Selectman Michael Tetreau and dispatcher Hank Steffens talk in front of the Fairfield Senior Center's new compressed natural gas bus.
Photo credit: Contributed

FAIRFIELD,  Conn. – Fairfield’s senior citizens can look forward to a greener ride around town. Earlier this week, the Fairfield Senior Center received a new bus that runs on compressed natural gas, a cheaper, less polluting fuel source than traditional diesel.

“The town has really embraced [alternative fuels],” Ed Boman, the Department of Public Works’ assistant director, said about the fuel when Fairfield opened its own natural gas filling station last spring. “The political leadership of this town is behind it 100 percent.”

The new bus is wheelchair-accessible and seats 14 people. It takes seniors not only to the Fairfield Senior Center, but also on trips to the Fairfield Public Library and other spots around town.

Compressed natural gas produces almost no carbon emissions, making it healthier for the seniors riding the bus and for the environment than a diesel system. It’s also cheaper for the town’s taxpayers. Natural gas currently costs about $1.80 per gallon. Boman said. CNG engines also need less maintenance in the long run.

First Selectman Michael Tetreau cut the ribbon on the bus Wednesday afternoon. It has already started making trips around Fairfield.