Federal Support Boosts Evanston’s Climate Goals
Evanston is making strides in its climate and environmental justice goals, largely due to federal funds from three key Biden administration programs. The American Rescue Plan Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the Inflation Reduction Act have collectively provided essential financial support. These funds are pivotal in advancing the city’s Climate Action and Resilience Plan.
Significant investments are being made in building efficiency and renewable energy projects. For instance, the Healthy Buildings Initiative is set to receive $10.7 million to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency. Meanwhile, the Accessible Solar Program is expanding access to solar power for low-income households, with an additional $1 million in funding.
Residents are also benefitting from extended tax credits for home energy upgrades. Over 3.4 million American families claimed $8.4 billion in tax credits last year. Large-scale investments are additionally supporting clean energy research at Northwestern University, a partner in the Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen.
The university’s involvement in this alliance is part of a broader $7 billion federal investment in Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs. These hubs aim to accelerate the market for low-cost, clean hydrogen, propelling forward significant advancements in clean energy technologies.
Urban Tree Canopy and Green Spaces
Federal support is also enhancing Evanston’s urban tree canopy and green spaces. The City of Evanston forestry division received $802,500 to increase safe access to greenspaces for vulnerable communities and to conduct public outreach and tree giveaways.
The city collaborates with Evanston Grows to establish an urban farm funded by $350,000 from ARPA. Although land has yet to be identified, the vision is for a one-acre farm offering nutritious food to food-insecure households.
In addition, the Rebuilding Exchange has been awarded $3.89 million from the EPA to reduce construction waste and its related emissions. This funding will help the organization calculate emissions reductions and develop environmental products declarations.
Key benefits of these initiatives include:
- Increased urban greenery and improved community resilience
- Development of sustainable food sources for vulnerable populations
- Reduction in construction waste and associated greenhouse gas emissions
Progress in Waste Reduction
The Rebuilding Exchange aims to minimize construction waste and its embodied emissions through resale of salvage materials and workforce training. With $1.2 million in ARPA funds, the organization purchased their Hartrey Street facility.
In August, the EPA announced an additional $3.9 million in funding to help the organization collect emissions data and develop tools for other practitioners. This project will also train 150 participants in workforce programs.
The exchange’s efforts are set to enhance the quality of greenhouse gas data associated with salvaged materials, providing valuable tools for environmental assessments. The training programs will equip participants with skills to better manage and utilize these materials.
Such investments signify a shift towards sustainable building practices and reduction of waste, aligning with Evanston’s broader climate objectives. These initiatives underscore the importance of federal support in driving local environmental progress.
Advancements in Clean Transportation
Evanston’s Climate Action and Resilience Plan also focuses on reducing vehicle miles and promoting sustainable transportation. District 65 will receive 10 electric school buses next year, funded by the U.S. EPA Clean School Bus Program.
The city stands to benefit from direct pay tax credits for clean-energy investments, including electric vehicles. This IRA provision allows tax-exempt entities to receive these credits, making climate projects more cost-effective.
A $985,000 technical assistance grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation will further reduce vehicle miles through transit-oriented development. This funding will enhance organizational capacity and advance pre-construction tasks for sustainable transportation projects.
These transportation initiatives reflect Evanston’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner, more efficient travel options. The city’s proactive approach is setting a benchmark for sustainable urban mobility.
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daniel
Why not invest more in public transportation instead of just focusing on electric vehicles?
Harrison_Radiant
Is there a timeline for when the electric school buses will start operating?
AliceElysium3
The Rebuilding Exchange sounds interesting. Can public participate in their projects?
Annabelle
How can residents apply for the home energy upgrade tax credits?
dylan
Hope the urban farm gets land soon. Fresh veggies for everyone! 🌱
elizabeth4
Where can I sign up for the tree giveaways? My yard needs some greenery!
Ian
It’s great to see federal funds being used for such important initiatives. Thank you!
CarolineSentinel
Are there any plans to involve local schools in these green projects?
jaydengenesis
Wow, $10.7 million for building efficiency? That’s awesome! 😊
Katherine
How will the Healthy Buildings Initiative impact local businesses in Evanston?