Hanson Bridgett Drives Zero-Emission Transportation Innovation
August 9, 2024 (San Francisco, CA)—Hanson Bridgett LLP is leading the charge in advising and setting up California transit agencies and infrastructure-related clients for success as they navigate the transition to zero-emission fleets.
On July 19, Hanson Bridgett's client, San Francisco Bay Ferry, celebrated the public launch of Sea Change, the world's first commercial passenger ferry powered by 100 percent zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells. The success of the project provides a glimpse into the future of California transportation.
Assisting San Francisco Bay Ferry’s launch of Sea Change is just one key milestone in our evolving support of hydrogen-powered, zero-emissions public transit, which began over a decade ago. The work builds upon the firm's extensive experience with battery-electric and other low- or zero-emission vehicles. Several public transit clients are integrating a mix of battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles – an important step in reaching the state's emission reduction targets.
Hanson Bridgett is helping these clients both acquire and develop the infrastructure that will support these zero-emissions fleets.
“Our job is to help clients evaluate the best way to deliver their projects, draft and negotiate contracts, source funding, and navigate the various complex challenges specific to each agency in integrating and scaling their hydrogen or battery electric powered fleets and necessary infrastructure,” said partner Allison Schutte, who leads the firm's Government Section.
Current Hanson Bridgett clients making significant progress in the early adoption of renewable energy and hydrogen-powered transportation solutions include AC Transit, Metrolink, Golden Gate Transit, San Joaquin Regional Transit District, Santa Cruz Metro, Valley Link, Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority, and SamTrans. More agencies and their partners are opting to make significant changes now in order to achieve the statewide regulation of zero emissions by 2040, and Hanson Bridgett is leading the way in supporting their efforts.
Building a zero-emissions fleet and the infrastructure to support it is a significant and difficult undertaking. Hanson Bridgett helps clients deal with issues such as hydrogen fuel pricing uncertainty and the challenges of the developing market, assisting with the funding and construction aspects of the projects.
“We're at the forefront of this technology and we have been for some time,” said partner Shayna van Hoften, Public Transit and Transportation Practice Leader. “To see these innovative advancements in transportation come to fruition, for several of our clients and partners, is a major step toward a more sustainable future.”
About Hanson Bridgett LLP
Hanson Bridgett LLP is a full-service AmLaw 200 law firm with more than 200 attorneys across California. Creating a diverse workforce by fostering an atmosphere of belonging and intentional support has been a priority at Hanson Bridgett since its founding in 1958. We are dedicated to creating an environment that provides opportunities for people with varied backgrounds, both for attorneys and administrative professionals. As the first law firm recognized as a certified B Corp, we are committed to the communities where our employees live and work and consider it part of our professional obligation to serve justice by encouraging and supporting pro bono and social impact work.
For media inquiries contact:
Patrick L. Clos
Communications Manager
Hanson Bridgett LLP
415-995-5098
pclos@hansonbridgett.com