Maine school districts can seek reimbursement of up to $3,000 per bus to install front crossing arms under a state safety program, the Department of Education reminded schools Oct. 27.
The supplemental budget signed in April allocated $5.9 million for school bus safety. The department is using the funding to reimburse eligible equipment and labor costs for buses without a front crossing arm.
Districts may hire a vendor or local garage, or have their own mechanics complete the work. Installations completed on or after July 1, 2025, can qualify, allowing districts that acted before the reimbursement program began to submit invoices.
The department expects the program to run through June 30, 2027. It plans a winter survey to determine whether schools need more time for installations.
The department's notice links to the reimbursement form and submission instructions. Schools with questions can contact transportation coordinator Cheryl Brackett at 207-446-3019.