The federal Carbon Reduction Program has announced funding for 15 projects across Oregon. These projects aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and promote sustainable practices. Three of the grants will benefit Central Oregon cities, with funding allocated for solar streetlights, mobility points, and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.
Under the federal government’s Justice40 initiative, over 65% of the funds will be directed towards projects in disadvantaged communities. The aim is to ensure that these communities can also benefit from sustainable transportation options and experience the positive impacts of reducing carbon emissions.
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) Climate Office administers the program and has collaborated with local transportation organizations and advocates to develop strategies, priorities, and evaluation criteria. Eligible projects included those in urban and rural areas of the state with populations under 200,000.
The three grants for Central Oregon cities include just over $2 million for installing 113 solar streetlights on Warm Springs collector streets. In addition, over $1 million will be used to create four Mobility Points in Bend, which will feature bus shelters, e-bike sharing stations, and electric car-sharing vehicles. Furthermore, $228,275 will be allocated for the construction of six Level 2 EV charging points with covered solar carports on Cascade Avenue in Sisters.
The Carbon Reduction Program is part of Oregon’s overall efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. Over the next several decades, the state aims to achieve a 60% reduction in transportation emissions compared to 1990 levels. The program will distribute a total of $82 million in federal funding over five years for projects across Oregon.
For more information about the Carbon Reduction Program and the projects it supports, visit the ODOT Carbon Reduction program website.
Sources:
– Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT)