FORT VALLEY, Ga. — Blue Bird Corp. was recently honored by the Middle Georgia Clean Air Coalition for its commitment and success in bringing alternative-fueled school bus transportation to the market.

The school bus manufacturer received the Extra Mile Award, which recognizes organizations that improve Georgia’s air quality while advancing economic, environmental and energy security.

“Blue Bird was chosen because they have gone the ‘extra mile’ in offering and providing a safe, attractive and viable alternative fuel choice for their buses amidst rising diesel fuel prices,” said Charise Stephens, executive director of the Middle Georgia Clean Air Coalition, of Blue Bird’s Propane-Powered Vision and Propane-Powered Micro Bird. “Blue Bird is a local hero that is supplying cleaner-burning buses throughout the nation. They’ve put Middle Georgia on the map as a hub for clean technology.”

Blue Bird has manufactured buses using alternative fuels since 1991. The company’s current product line includes two different size school buses fueled by propane and one by compressed natural gas.

“At Blue Bird, we are committed to providing innovative, reliable and efficient green solutions that our customers want and value,” said Phil Horlock, president and CEO. “I am honored to accept this award on behalf of all our employees.”

Now in its 85th year, Blue Bird employs 1,500 individuals from about 45 counties across Georgia. More than 500,000 school buses have been manufactured in the state and delivered to communities throughout the U.S. and across the world.

Hall County Schools, based in Gainesville, Ga., recently purchased 20 propane-powered buses, reportedly becoming the first school district in the state to use the fuel in its fleet.

“Blue Bird is proud to be an important part of the Middle Georgia community,” Horlock added. “We will continue our commitment as a school bus industry innovator, leading the way in finding smart and affordable solutions that benefit the environment and our communities.”