BRANFORD, Conn. — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced on Wednesday that Branford Public Schools will receive $6,329,215 to aid in the purchase of 21 zero-emission vehicles through the new Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program.
According to a release from the EPA, the project will replace 21 Class 7 fossil-fuel-powered school buses with new zero-emission/electric school buses.
The Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program was created by President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act to replace existing internal combustion engine heavy-duty vehicles with zero-emission vehicles. It will support the build out of clean vehicle infrastructure while training workers to use the technology.
The Biden-Harris Administration selected 70 applicants nationwide to receive funding for over 2,400 zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles. Along with financing infrastructure and workforce development projects, the initiative looks to tackle climate change, reduce air pollution and advance environmental justice.
EPA Administrator Michael Regan echoed that the goal is to develop clean technologies that address the impact of climate change.
“Together, the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant projects announced [Wednesday] will slash air pollution and enhance the country’s infrastructure for cleaner transportation solutions, creating good-paying jobs along the way,” Regan said.
U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) said the investment will transform the ride to school for young students in Branford with a fleet of electric, low-emissions school buses.
“These climate-friendly school buses will improve air quality for surrounding communities, supporting Connecticut’s environmental goals,” Blumenthal said. “I’m proud that Inflation Reduction Act funding continues to advance clean energy in our state.”
U.S. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) said that the investment in Branford Public Schools is a victory for our children’s health, the environment and the economy.
“Replacing aging school buses with zero-emission vehicles ensures cleaner air for students and our communities while advancing cutting-edge technology and creating good-paying jobs. This is a transformative step toward a healthier, more sustainable future for Connecticut,” DeLauro said.
RELATED: EPA sets strict emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks and buses in bid to fight climate change
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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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