Living in Orem with my two young children, I’m envious of parents in Salt Lake City and Park City School districts that already have electric school buses and peace of mind knowing their kids aren’t exposed to diesel fumes that cause asthma and other health problems. I wish kids in my community had that option. These buses are a win for air quality, reducing long-term busing costs, and creating quieter, more family-friendly communities.
As a family we spend much of our time outdoors in our garden, running and biking in Provo Canyon, at local parks, and enjoying our backyard swing set. Regional air pollution already restricts when we can do these safely, especially during winter months, when inversion decreases the air quality further. Knowing that indoor play is not as beneficial for our kids’ development as independent, outdoor play, I would love to have the freedom of nature play year-round. I’m hopeful that Orem, and all Utah cities, will support legislation to adopt the use of electric school buses. I truly believe this will help ensure a cleaner, healthier Utah for everyone!
Lilli Sanders
Orem