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EPA Assistance Will Encourage Green Infrastructure, Climate Resiliency in Austin

Release Date: 10/01/2014
Contact Information: Jennah Durant or Joe Hubbard, R6Press@epa.gov or 214 665-2200

DALLAS – (October 1, 2014) Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Austin, Texas, will receive assistance to develop infrastructure that will contribute to greener, more vibrant neighborhoods and increase resiliency from the impacts of climate change.

“Austin serves as a model for many cities in how it plans for growth,” said Regional Administrator Ron Curry. “By building resiliency from the many challenges of climate change, Austin will ensure its neighborhoods thrive as the economy continues to expand.”

Through the Greening America’s Capitals initiative, EPA’s assistance will help design improvements to pedestrian and bike connections in the South Central Waterfront area near Lady Bird Lake. The design will incorporate green infrastructure techniques to reduce pollution from stormwater runoff and localized flooding, improve water quality and increase shade.

Regional Administrator Ron Curry joined several leaders from the city of Austin and state government this morning to discuss the plans. Austin is one of five cities across the country to receive assistance. Since 2010, EPA has helped 18 capital cities and the District of Columbia create community designs that help clean the air and water, stimulate economic development, and make existing neighborhoods more vibrant places. The final designs provide models for other communities interested in adopting similar approaches that can improve the environment, strengthen local economies, and protect public health.

For more information about Greening America’s Capitals:
https://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/greencapitals.htm

EPA is taking a variety of actions to cut greenhouse gas emissions and address the impacts of climate change. Most recently, EPA released a Clean Power Plan for existing power plants to cut carbon pollution by 30 percent below 2005 levels. Learn more about EPA’s actions at https://www.epa.gov/climatechange/.

Connect with EPA Region 6:
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eparegion6
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/EPAregion6
Activities in EPA Region 6: https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/region6.htm