Flint Mass Transit Authority Fleet Conversion to Hybrid Power

Why is this a good use of taxpayers' dollars:

The Mass Transportation Authority is introducing hybrid technology into its fleet, through conversion of existing vehicles where appropriate, and purchase of new vehicles.  The MTA has formed a partnership with faculty members from Kettering University and Michigan State University to develop an advanced hybrid power train for transit buses.  They are prepared to begin production of the advanced hybrid system and to modify up to fifty New Flyer buses in the MTA’s fleet.