W.Va. Could Have Propane-Powered School Buses in 2013

The next generation of propane-powered school buses in West Virginia could be on the road at the beginning of the next school year.

The West Virginia Board of Education on Oct. 4 approved a request from the state Department of Education to allow it to include propane as an alternative fuel in the specifications for school buses.

Because of funding cycles and the fiscal year, state money to help with the purchase of propane-powered buses won't be available until July 1, said Bob Shew, transportation director for the state Department of Education.

West Virginia's public schools buy about 200 buses a year, Shew said.

"It remains to be seen as to how quickly the county are willing to take advantage of the 40 percent reduction in fuel costs," he said.

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