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$1.7 Million available for Clean Diesel Projects in Northeast; EPA solicits applications for Voluntary Diesel Retrofit Program and Clean School Bus USA

Release Date: 06/08/2007
Contact Information: Elias Rodriguez (212) 637-3664, rodriguez.elias@epa.gov or Brenda Reyes (787) 977-5869, reyes.brenda@epa.gov

(New York, N.Y.) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is pleased to announce the availability of nearly $1.7 million for clean diesel projects under the 2007 Northeast Diesel Collaborative emissions reductions grant program. EPA is soliciting applications under two national clean diesel programs: the Voluntary Diesel Retrofit program and Clean School Bus USA. Projects may include a variety of diesel emissions reductions solutions such as add-on pollution control technology, engine or vehicle replacement, idle reduction technologies or strategies, and cleaner fuel use. All projects must benefit the air quality in the geographic areas that include Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Vermont; and Tribal lands belonging to the federally recognized Indian tribes in these regions. The deadline for applying is July 31, 2007.

“Reducing the emissions of particle pollution is a crucial component of EPA’s strategy for cleaner air and healthier Americans,” said Alan J. Steinberg, EPA Regional Administrator. “We have consistently identified diesel emissions as a significant source of pollution and a risk to public health. These funds allow us to complement regulatory efforts by cleaning up diesels that are already on our roads and rails, at our construction sites and in our harbors."

Funding under the Voluntary Diesel Retrofit program supports projects that demonstrate innovative pollution reduction retrofit technologies or strategies for on road and off road vehicles and equipment, such as those used in marine vessels and ports, construction, locomotives and rail, or heavy-duty on-road operations.

EPA is accepting applications for the Voluntary Diesel Retrofit Program from states and local governments, federally recognized Indian Tribes, international organizations, public and private universities and colleges, hospitals and other public or private non-profit institutions.

Funding under Clean School Bus USA supports projects that assist school districts in their efforts to reduce pollution from diesel-powered school buses. EPA is accepting applications for Clean School Bus USA projects from state and local governments, and school districts, local and federally recognized Indian Tribal governments and non-profit organizations.

For more information, including a copy of the Request for Proposals, please visit: https://www.epa.gov/region02/grants or contact Faye Blondin (212) 637-3713.

En Español

07-073