The City of Rock Island reduced fuel consumption by 8%, or by 17,460 gallons, from Fiscal Year 08-09 to Fiscal Year 09-10. At an average of $2 per gallon, this equates to an estimated $35,000 in savings.
"I`m proud of the City staff and want to thank them for this achievement. Reducing fuel costs was an important way for us to save money, as well as help the environment," stated City Manager John Phillips.
In the third quarter of 2008, Mr. Phillips issued a challenge in the City employee newsletter. "It is my goal to reduce fuel consumption by 10%. With the cooperation and support of all our employees who drive City vehicles, I am confident this can be accomplished." The newsletter went on to address many ideas from the Green Team on how to reduce fuel consumption from planning trips, accelerating and decelerating smoothly, and not allowing idling for gas engines unless needed for other uses.
Mr. Phillips notes, "I knew that reducing fuel consumption by 10% would be a hard goal to achieve, and may be unattainable. I set my sights high and am pleased with the results."
In 2008, the City purchased a fleet of 24 hybrid vehicles (21 Honda Civics and 3 Ford Escapes). These vehicles, along with a concerted effort from all City departments, helped reduce fuel consumption.
Fuel consumption:
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08-09 - 220,305 gallons used
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09-10 - 202,845 gallons used
Miles traveled:
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08-09 - 1,667,367 miles
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09-10 - 1,578,933 miles
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