Cataño acquires school buses to convey public school students safely

The new school buses were presented at the Cataño Convention Center during the municipality’s annual Back to School event, where hundreds of students received free backpacks and school supplies for their return to school in August.

By The Star Staff

The Municipality of Cataño announced over the weekend the acquisition of three modern school buses with the capacity to transport up to 60 students per unit, as part of its commitment to the education and well-being of Cataño’s children.

The new 2026 model buses are equipped with air conditioning and, starting in August, will offer the customary free school transportation service for students attending the municipality’s public schools.

The municipal investment totals $554,850, with an individual cost of $184,950 per bus. The buses replace the previous vehicles, raising the standard of safety, comfort, and accessibility for students and their families.

“These buses represent much more than a vehicle; they are a direct investment for our children and youth,” Mayor Julio Alicea Vasallo said. “In Cataño, we continue to take firm steps to ensure our community has access to decent and modern services, regardless of the cost. Free school transportation is part of our policy of social justice and equity.”

The town’s school transportation service remains operational throughout the academic year and has been instrumental in facilitating access to education, especially for students from vulnerable communities, the municipality’s first lady Bethzaida Rodríguez Torres noted.

“For many parents, this service represents relief and peace of mind,” she said. “Knowing that their children arrive safely to school and return home in modern and comfortable vehicles is part of our commitment to the families of Cataño.”

The school buses were presented at the Cataño Convention Center during the municipality’s annual Back to School event, where hundreds of students receive free backpacks and school supplies for their return to school in August, while enjoying family time with children’s characters.