Austin receives $48 million EPA grant
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City officials say they'll use a nearly $48 million grant to expand and promote access to cleaner modes of transit, part of an EPA program that aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Why it matters: The Texas Department of Transportation is moving forward with plans to overhaul I-35, which is expected to lead to more trucks and cars on our already busy roads, and city officials fear that road closures and delays will increase air pollution by single-occupant vehicles.
- Meanwhile, construction for the 9.8-mile Project Connect light rail system is scheduled to begin in 2027, which could also impact traffic.
What they're saying: "We plan to use this grant to make our transition a little easier and more pleasant for our residents," Mayor Kirk Watson said in a statement.
- Austin's Climate Equity Plan includes a goal of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
The big picture: Nationally, the EPA selected 25 applications for Climate Pollution Reduction Grants, including Austin's, to fund projects in 30 states.
- Austin was the only city in Texas selected for the program.
Zoom in: The $48 million will go toward a "three-pronged effort," per a city news release.
- Capital Area Rural Transportation Service and Movability will build up their service operations with more interurban coach and vanpool services to San Marcos, Bastrop and Taylor.
- Funding to expand access to carpooling, improved CapMetro BikeShare and other mobility infrastructure.
- Incentivize and engage Austinites to seek out more mass transit opportunities.
What's next: The City Council must accept the funding, and the city has to finalize paperwork with the EPA.