RIC Goes Greener with Launch of New Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) EasyPark Shuttles

RICHMOND, VA (August 8, 2013)

ENVIRONMENTALLY POSITIVE TRANSITION TO CLEANER-BURNING ALTERNATIVE FUEL CREATES OPPORTUNITY TO SHOWCASE RICHMOND REGION ASSETS

Richmond International Airport (RIC) today launched service by nine new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) EasyPark shuttle buses. The reduced-emissions shuttles, operated by Standard Parking, offer 24/7/365 door-to-door service between the terminal and RIC’s Economy Parking facilities.

“We’re very pleased, after more than five years of planning, to bring the new CNG shuttles online,” said airport president and CEO Jon E. Mathiasen, AAE. “It is estimated that the use of replacing diesels with a CNG shuttle fleet will reduce Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) emissions by 89% and Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions by 95%. Overall, fleet tailpipe emissions will be reduced by more than 20 tons per year.”

In addition to the new fleet, a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fueling station was built on airport property to fuel the vehicles.  Acquisition of the shuttles and the construction of CNG infrastructure were made possible by a Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) Improvement Program grant supported by the Richmond Metropolitan Planning Organization.

While the transition from diesel- to CNG-powered vehicles for airport parking will have a net positive environmental result, the shuttles additionally showcase the lifestyle, business environment, and attractions of the Greater Richmond Region. The Richmond-specific themes, originally suggested by the Branding Committee of the Greater Richmond Chamber as a means to showcase the region, display themes including Innovation, Business Friendly, Racing Under the Lights at RIR, Sports & Recreation, History & Heritage, Arts & Culture, Higher Education, and River Fun. The shuttles’ graphics were designed by West Cary Group.

Matching customer demand levels, on an average day the Airport may operate up to seven shuttles concurrently. All EasyPark drivers have commercial drivers licenses (CDLs) and each shuttle is equipped with a wheelchair lift.

Richmond International Airport (RIC), one of North America’s most efficient airports according to the Air Transport Research Society (ATRS), offers easy access from the highway to the jetway. More than three million passengers and 100 million pounds of cargo travel through RIC annually. For more information, please visit www.FlyRichmond.com.

CONTACT:
Troy M. Bell, C.M.
Director – Marketing & Air Service Development/PIO
Richmond International Airport
(804) 226-3022 or tbell@flyrichmond.com

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