ST. CLOUD -- St. Cloud Metro Bus will be expanding its fleet of large fixed-route buses sooner than scheduled thanks to a state grant. Metro Bus is receiving a grant of just over $4,000,000 to add five compressed natural gas-powered buses.

The Governor's Office recently announced $23,700,000 in Greater Minnesota Transit Grants to 23 transit providers.

Metro Bus Executive Director Ryan Daniel says through a written statement to WJON that they are awaiting an official contract from MnDOT before they can order the new buses. Daniel says the process to get a new bus online is 12-18 months. The grant was the largest award to any agency in the award pool.

Tri-County Action Program also received a grant worth $422,500. They will use the money to expand their service hours in Sauk Centre and Little Falls, add a new service route in Holdingford and buy a new bus.

More From 103.7 The Loon