The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant funding initiative for New York State, with $125.1 million allocated to assist in the purchase of 263 zero-emission vehicles. This funding comes from the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program, marking its first implementation. The projects aim to reduce air pollution and improve air quality across New York, particularly benefiting communities historically affected by pollution.
Lisa F. Garcia, EPA Regional Administrator, emphasized the dual benefits of this investment: "EPA's investments in clean heavy-duty vehicles prove that protecting public health and supporting economic growth can, and do, go hand in hand." She highlighted the transition to zero-emission buses and trucks as a means to enhance air quality while creating jobs in manufacturing and infrastructure development.
Senator Chuck Schumer expressed pride in securing over $125 million for New York through federal grants: “I’m proud to announce more than $125 million in federal grants for New York to deploy hundreds of zero-emission school buses and other vehicles, install charging equipment, and train workers for new green jobs.” He noted that this investment will help reduce carbon emissions while promoting union jobs.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand also supported the initiative: “A clean, zero-emission transportation sector in New York will support good-paying jobs and protect communities overburdened by air pollution.” She mentioned that the $78 million investment would aid New York's transition to electric school buses while expanding charging infrastructure.
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries acknowledged the impact on Brooklyn communities: “For decades, communities across Brooklyn have historically suffered from disproportionate rates of asthma and certain cancers.” He praised the EPA’s efforts under the Inflation Reduction Act to modernize municipal vehicle fleets.
U.S. Representative Gregory W. Meeks commented on emissions standards: “The IRA created this meaningful grant program that allows for heavy-duty vehicles to be properly maintained and equipped with the latest emissions-reduction technologies.”
U.S. Representative Grace Meng highlighted environmental benefits: “These clean heavy-duty vehicles will combat pollution in our communities to help ensure a cleaner and healthier future.”
Doreen M. Harris from NYSERDA commended the awardees: “The EPA funding announced today for clean heavy-duty vehicles...is putting healthier transportation for students on our roadways.”
Specific projects include replacing diesel school buses with electric models in several districts such as Haverstraw-Stony Point CSD ($7.45 million), Queensbury Union Free School District ($5.81 million), NYC School Bus Umbrella Services ($54.95 million), among others.
Nationally, over 3 million Class 6 and Class 7 vehicles are currently operational; many are older models emitting higher pollutants linked to health issues like respiratory diseases. The Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program aims at replacing these with zero-emission alternatives.
Overall, 70 applicants across various states have been selected for over $735 million funding through this program aimed at purchasing more than 2,400 zero-emission vehicles nationwide.
This initiative supports President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative aiming at delivering benefits of federal investments to disadvantaged communities facing air quality challenges.
Final awards are expected by early 2025 after legal requirements are met with project implementation spanning two to three years depending on scope.
Further details can be found on EPA’s website or inquiries directed via email provided by EPA contacts listed online.