Richmond, Va. – What began in 1996 with a small but dedicated group and a bold vision to decarbonize transportation has grown into a statewide movement. On April 2, Virginia Clean Cities welcomed nearly 100 guests to Richmond to celebrate 30 years of advancing clean transportation across the Commonwealth.
The organization’s annual Rally in Richmond, held at Main Street Station, featured exhibitors representing a wide range of domestic fuel technologies. Attendees explored an outdoor vehicle expo showcasing the latest innovations—from electric school buses to electric-powered personal watercraft—offering a hands-on look at the future of transportation.
View the photos here: Rally in Richmond Photo Gallery
A highlight of the expo included second-life battery charging equipment, which uses repurposed and recycled EV batteries to provide emergency power for stranded electric vehicle drivers—demonstrating how sustainability and innovation continue to intersect.
The evening concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing individuals and organizations making significant contributions to clean transportation over the past year.
“As we reflect on 30 years of progress, we also look ahead to the opportunities that innovation and collaboration will bring,” said Virginia Clean Cities Executive Director Alleyn Harned. “The individuals recognized here tonight are helping us to lead that charge toward a cleaner, domestic, affordable, and more resilient transportation future. I can’t wait to see what we all do in the next 30 years.”
- Clean School Bus Champion: Dr. Maurice Moore was honored for leadership in helping Prince William County Public Schools begin transitioning its school bus fleet to propane. The shift from diesel is improving air quality for students while reducing fuel costs.
- Hydrogen Vanguard Award: Bill Lehner of Independence Hydrogen was recognized for advancing hydrogen fuel solutions. His company operates a one-ton-per-day, veteran-led hydrogen recycling facility in Petersburg, repurposing byproduct hydrogen from a nearby industrial plant to fuel fleet vehicles, including those operated by Walmart.
- Resilient Fuel Impact Award: Jessica Steelman and Brendle Wolf of Resilient Virginia and their Resilient Virginia Collaborative Alliance were honored for integrating clean transportation into regional resilience planning and supporting a monthly Clean Transportation Workgroup that fosters collaboration across sectors.
- Next Generation Leadership Award: Ian Lasseter, now with Transportation Energy Partnership, was recognized for his continued commitment to clean transportation. A former Virginia Clean Cities intern, Lassiter has played a key role in advancing initiatives through strategic communications and coordination.
- Clean Transportation Champion: Tim Witten of Blacksburg Transit was honored for his leadership in transit electrification. His work has provided valuable insights for fleets and workforce trainers exploring zero-emission technologies.
- Listening Leader Award: Delegate Bonita Anthony was recognized for her efforts to connect fleet operators with emerging technologies and for introducing legislation to support fleet modernization.
- Clean Highway Visionary: Delegate Irene Shin was honored for her role in advancing legislation that enables electric transmission infrastructure to be sited alongside existing corridors—helping reduce costs and accelerate deployment.
- Clean Healthy Air for Kids Award: Delegate Gretchen Bulova was recognized for championing legislation to expand funding opportunities for clean school bus adoption. The proposal is expected to return for consideration in the 2027 legislative session.
- Public Service Award (Posthumous): Ben Delp of James Madison University was honored for a lifetime of service and dedication. Remembered as a passionate advocate and trusted colleague, Delp’s contributions—from engaging with federal leaders to mentoring peers—left a lasting impact on Virginia Clean Cities and the broader community.
