EPA announces $100 million award to Arkansas Tri-Region Coalition
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on July 22 that the Arkansas Tri-Region Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) Coalition has been selected for a $99,999,999 CPRG award for its "Energy and Environment Innovation for the Natural State" proposal.
By: Rowdy Baribeau
KATV 7
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on July 22 that the Arkansas Tri-Region Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) Coalition has been selected for a $99,999,999 CPRG award for its "Energy and Environment Innovation for the Natural State" proposal.
The transformative grant will fund projects throughout Central, Northwest Arkansas, and the Arkansas River Valley, representing half of the state's population.
Metroplan served as the lead agency on the grant submittal, one of only 24 funded nationally.
Metroplan board president and Pulaski County Judge, Barry Hyde, said the award is a testament to Arkansas's commitment to environmental stewardship.
“I am thrilled the efforts of Metroplan, Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission, and the City of Fort Smith have been recognized with the prestigious EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant," Hyde said. "This monumental award is not just a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship but also a call to action.
We stand at the forefront of an ambitious journey to foster a sustainable future for our community. Together, with the EPA, we will implement innovative solutions that will significantly improve our environment and quality of life. We are honored to be among the select few to spearhead these transformative programs.”
The award will fund projects to sequester and reduce emissions by protecting and restoring natural areas, which will increase efficiency, and improve access to active transportation.
Projects such as LED streetlights and electric vehicle charging will reduce emissions from the transportation sector, and building efficiency funding will support net-zero technologies for public and commercial buildings.
Casey Covington, Metroplan Executive Director, said the CPRG funding will be transformative for Arkansas.
“By preserving critical outdoor spaces, enhancing active transportation, and demonstrating innovative energy solutions, the CPRG Implementation funding will be transformative for the Natural State and our state’s growing economy and tourism," Covington said. "Our coalition’s selection for an award speaks to the benefits of partnerships among and within regions to achieve common energy and environment innovation goals.”
The coalition partnered with over 50 communities, agencies and organizations across the three regions to develop projects and programs that are both effective and aligned with public and stakeholder interests.
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