Tonko heralds $257M for New York to reduce carbon pollution
In the reecent celebration of Earth Day, Rep. Paul D. Tonko (D-Amsterdam) announced more than $257 million in funding to be delivered to New York over the next five years for investments in clean transportation and climate-friendly infrastructure for New York State.
This funding will be administered under the Federal Highway Administration’s Carbon Reduction Program, created by the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Tonko successfully fought to pass, and will provide New York families with more transportation options, ease traffic congestion in local communities, and reduce carbon pollution across our nation.
“When I cast my vote for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, investments like these were exactly what I had in mind,” Tonko said. “I’ve long supported efforts to modernize our transportation infrastructure through increased funding for public transit, electric vehicles, and other emerging technologies. Today, our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is delivering for New Yorkers with historic investments in cleaner, more convenient transportation options.
“This badly needed funding will slash commute times, combat harmful pollution, create good-paying jobs, and lower costs for working families. I’m proud to have fought for this significant funding, and I will continue to work with our state and local leaders to put these game-changing investments to work as soon as possible.”
Tonko has long been a supporter of actions that cut transportation emissions and reduce our reliance on gaspowered vehicles.
In recent weeks, Tonko has cheered significant new funding for Capital Region transit agencies under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, heralded new investments in New York’s electric vehicle infrastructure, and highlighted a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to develop training modules for the next generation of electric vehicle technicians at Hudson Valley Community College.
This latest tranche of investments totals more than $6.4 billion across the country over the next five years, administered by the Federal Highway Administration’s Carbon Reduction Program. As working families across the nation struggle with rising gas prices at the pump, this funding will provide New Yorkers with more transportation alternatives and reduce commute times. These funds can be invested in a range of eligible projects, including:
• Public transit services
• Electric vehicle charging infrastructure
• Traffic flow improvements
• Congestion management technology
• Pedestrian and bicycle trails