The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the selection of 105 applications for its Community Change Grants Program (CCGP), distributing nearly $1.6 billion to support local projects aimed at reducing pollution and increasing climate resilience. The funding, made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, marks a significant investment in environmental and climate justice.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the administration's commitment to investing in communities historically excluded from federal funding. "On day one of his administration, President Biden promised to target investments to communities that for too long have been shut out of federal funding," said Regan. "Today, thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, EPA is delivering on that promise."
Among the recent selectees are two projects from Region 7: the Curators of the University of Missouri and the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team.
The University of Missouri will receive $20 million for work in Chariton County, Missouri. This project aims to improve flood resilience in Brunswick through the development of rain gardens and water retention ponds, planting pecan trees, and rebuilding roadways with sustainable materials. The Old City Hall will be remodeled into a community resilience hub serving multiple purposes including an emergency shelter and training facility.
The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team has been awarded $2.9 million for initiatives across several Kansas counties: Bourbon, Crawford, Cowley, and Mitchell. This project builds on existing efforts to address issues such as lead-based paint and air pollution through Local Health Equity Action Teams composed of diverse community stakeholders.
EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister highlighted the broader impact of these grants: “These grants are more than financial support – they are truly investments in people and communities.”
Of the total selections, 32 are designated for Target Investment Areas with $600 million allocated specifically to disadvantaged communities facing unique challenges.
Applications for the CCGP closed on November 21, 2024, with approximately 2,700 submissions requesting over $40 billion in funds. EPA plans to obligate most selected grants by January 2025 but will continue evaluating remaining applications beyond this timeline due to high demand.
