Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) Awarded $1 Million EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) will receive up to $1 million in grant funds through the Climate Pollution Reduction Act. The aim of this grant is to develop innovative strategies to cut climate pollution and build clean energy economies in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood Metropolitan Statistical Area. This funding is part of President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, which provides flexible planning resources to local governments, states, tribes and territories for climate solutions that protect communities from pollution and advance environmental justice.

Common-Sense Solutions to Reduce Climate Pollution

The EPA is committed to helping cities build common-sense solutions to reduce climate pollution. EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker said, “This is the first step in a strategic effort to help our cities build common-sense solutions to reduce climate pollution. EPA looks forward to supporting locally-grown projects that will make Denver-area communities healthier and stronger.” Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock added, “Denver is proud to be a leader in climate action, and this funding will support our ongoing regional efforts to implement climate solutions. This is the first step to unlocking billions of federal dollars that will be invested in community solutions to address the climate crisis.”

Developing a Dynamic, Accessible, and Equitable Climate Action Plan

DRCOG’s Executive Director, Doug Rex, said, “We look forward to bringing stakeholders throughout the region together to develop a climate action plan that is dynamic, accessible, and equitable. By bringing Climate Pollution Reduction Grants to our region, we hope to cost-effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions and at the same time benefit from improved infrastructure, better air quality, and more vibrant and livable communities.” The Regional Air Quality Council is also excited to partner with DRCOG and local governments on climate pollution reduction strategies.

Climate Action Plan Focuses on Low-Income and Disadvantaged Communities

DRCOG will use the grant funds to develop a climate action plan in collaboration with municipalities and communities across the metro area and conduct meaningful public engagement on the plan, focusing specifically on low-income and disadvantaged communities. This is a significant step in ensuring that investments maximize benefits, especially for low-income and disadvantaged communities. Later this year, EPA will launch a competition for $4.6 billion in follow-up funding to implement projects and initiatives in climate action plans, which DRCOG is eligible to receive.

You can learn more about Climate Pollution Reduction Grants here.

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