BEAUMONT -- The City of Beaumont has given people a chance to test ride new cleaner-burning buses that were put into service Wednesday.

The buses run on compressed natural gas and are cleaner burning than the diesel buses they replace.

12 buses will cover daily routes. Three buses will be placed in reserve.

The Beaumont Municipal Transit System let people ride free Wednesday to try out the new buses.

The buses were paid for by a $6.2 million grant from the Southeast Texas Regional Planning Commission.

The 35 foot long, low floor buses will be fully accessible to the disabled with front door ramps.

William Munson, general manager of the Transit System, says the cleaner-burning compressed natural gas engines will be more environmentally friendly than the fleet of diesel buses and help significantly reduce pollution.

They have electronic fare boxes with smart card technology, 31 day magnetic strip passes, magnetic strip transfers and change- making capability. 

Beaumont Transit is asking for patience during the first few days of service while the staff and public get used to the new fare system and new equipment.