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Copyright 2000, www.pollutiononline.com
September 8, 2000
Southern California's Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review (MSRC) has made $14.5 million available for a wide range measures to reduce air pollution from transportation sources, including funding in the categories of alternative fuel transit buses, employer-based rideshare incentive programs and electric bicycles.
The projects with the greatest promise of getting funding are those that include significant, measurable emissions reductions, demonstrate cost effectiveness and have verified co-funding and local governments, government agencies, businesses, research institutions and individuals are encouraged to apply for this funding.
This year's eligible categories are:
Alternative Fuel Transit Bus Program—$4.25 million is available to help purchase low-emission 35- to 40-foot alternative fuel transit buses. Also eligible are refueling infrastructure and specialized fleet mechanic training.On- and Off-Road Heavy Duty Vehicle Program—$3.25 million for co-funding of new alternative fuel on- and off-road vehicles (14,000 pounds gross vehicle weight or greater). Replacing uncontrolled diesel engines in existing off-road heavy-duty vehicles with state certified diesel fuel engines is also eligible. Co-funding for infrastructure is available when linked with a vehicle purchase.Transportation Control Measures ($1.0 million total) :
Voluntary employer-based rideshare incentive program—For innovative projects that reduce vehicle miles traveled and/or auto trips through employer-based incentive programs. Companies subject to the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s Rule 2202 are not eligible.Advanced Traveler Management Information Systems (ATMIS)—Seeks proposals for projects that promote the use of state-of-the-art technology to distribute information on ridesharing and other commuting options.Bicycles for the Employer Market—Funds proposals that facilitate the use of bicycles instead of motor vehicles to commute to and from work (or within or between work sites).Electric Bicycle Buydown Program—The program will pre-qualify electric bicycle manufacturers for participation in a buydown program. When implemented, this program will provide rebates to buyers of electric bicycles through qualified manufacturers.Land Use Strategy Implementation Projects—Provides co-funding for incentive-based land use strategies that achieve emission reductions by decreasing motor vehicle use. Proposals must have verifiable and sustainable emission reductions.The MSRC FY 2000/01 work program will also includes:
Local Government subvention match program ($3.0 million available)—Cities in the South Coast Basin that receive clean air funds from the DMV’s motor vehicle registration fee can receive matching funds for alternative fuel programs.Continuation of a light-duty alternative fuel buydown program ($2.0 million in new funds)—This ongoing program helps buy down the cost of alternative fuel vehicles that are certified as zero or super ultra-low emission vehicles. The incentive is currently available through auto dealers.Reserve funds ($1.0 million) are tentatively reserved for the continuation of a compressed natural gas school bus buydown program.
To apply for funding, applicants must follow the Request for Proposals (RFP) or Request for Qualification (RFQ) process. Proposal are due no later that 5 p.m. on Oct. 5, 2000.
For more information about the MSRC FY 2000/01 work program, visit the MSRC’s website at http://www.msrc-cleanair.org or call (909) 396-2777.Edited by Kate Goff