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Paul Soglin, Mayor

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Paul Soglin, Mayor
Paul Soglin, Mayor

I want to update you on the city’s launch of the transition toward a “greener” fleet. We have some impressive goals, and we have started the process.

Seven hybrid-electric vehicles were purchased for the police and health departments, more than doubling the fuel efficiency of the cars they replaced. The newest fire ambulances are using anti-idling technology, reducing emissions and fuel use by up to 40 percent. This technology allows paramedics to treat injuries and illnesses in the ambulance prior to hospital transport without idling the engine of the vehicle for power. 

The city’s first three plug-in electric cars entered service in 2018, with 25 more on the way. Madison will have the largest zero-emission fleet in Wisconsin. We are awaiting our first electric buses for Madison Metro’s fleet. All the electric vehicles were possible because of collaboration with Madison Gas and Electric, and we want to continue that partnership in the future. 

Over one million fewer pounds of CO2 were emitted in 2018, thanks to biodiesel for heavy equipment, with plans to double the volume in 2019. New GPS technology on public works vehicles, such as plows and garbage trucks, will reduce speeding and idling, while saving fuel. This technology can also contribute to more efficient routes.

Fleet Services is examining hybrid-electric bucket trucks for the Parks Division, and compressed natural gas trucks that would be fueled by Dane County’s landfill methane. Finally, in 2019 the city is expected to break ground on a brand-new repair garage consolidating four public works facilities into one, reducing travel miles. The state-of-the-art building will feature solar power.

City, county, state and federal governments must go to war on climate change because we are in the midst of a crisis. It’s gratifying to see that Madison is playing a part, and in many areas, is leading the way.

Stay well.