HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania is taking a bold step to combat air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions with over $2.55 million in grants for clean fuel transportation infrastructure. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recently announced this funding as part of its renewed push to modernize the state’s transportation sector, targeting an area that contributes nearly half of the state’s nitrogen oxide emissions and accounts for 22% of total greenhouse gases.
“Communities are investing in zero- and low-emission transportation because they recognize this is a pathway to cleaner air and better health,” said DEP Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley. Her statement drives home the vision of a healthier, more sustainable Pennsylvania—and these projects are poised to deliver just that.
Proactive Change for Cleaner Communities
This new funding, offered through the 2024 Alternative Fuel Incentive Grant (AFIG) program, showcases Pennsylvania’s commitment to reducing harm caused by traditional gasoline and diesel engines. A total of 14 recipients, covering 16 separate projects, are set to revolutionize transportation—from electric school buses to expansive EV charging infrastructure—across the state.
The environmental stakes couldn’t be higher. Tailpipe emissions are among the largest contributors to smog, respiratory illnesses, and broader climate change. By replacing aging vehicles with electric, renewable natural gas (RNG), compressed natural gas (CNG), propane, and biodiesel alternatives, Pennsylvania is not just making an environmental statement—it’s stepping up to protect the health of its most vulnerable communities.
One standout feature of this program is its equity-focused approach. Nine projects directly support DEP-designated Environmental Justice Areas, serving vulnerable populations that have historically borne the brunt of air pollution. The deployment of these funds where they’re needed most sends a powerful message of inclusion and responsibility.
What Will These Grants Deliver?
The $2.55 million will fund a mix of innovative vehicle upgrades and critical infrastructure projects. Together, they’re expected to save 575,241 gasoline gallon equivalents (GGE) annually—a huge win for both the environment and energy efficiency.
Highlights include:
- Plum Borough School District in Allegheny County securing $300,000 to introduce three electric school buses.
- Waste Management of Pennsylvania in Bucks County replacing 15 waste vehicles with RNG-fueled options, thanks to $300,000 in funding.
- DMJ Transportation in Westmoreland County using $248,030 to add 34 propane school buses to its fleet.
- Endless Mountains Transportation Authority in Tioga County purchasing 10 propane transit vans with a $300,000 award.
But this isn’t just about replacing vehicles. Infrastructure projects will dramatically enhance access for electric vehicles. Star Lake Ford LLC in Washington County will leverage $300,000 to install three publicly accessible EV chargers, while the Township of Abington in Montgomery County will install five new Level 2 charging stations for both fleet and public use.
Why This Matters
This isn’t just a list of projects—it’s a roadmap for a cleaner, more sustainable Pennsylvania. Transitioning to cleaner transportation means reducing harmful pollutants, lessening the warming effects of greenhouse gases, and moving the state toward a future where public health isn’t compromised by something as everyday as a morning commute.
The numbers are stark. Nearly half of Pennsylvania’s nitrogen oxide emissions—the same emissions that contribute to smog and trigger asthma and other respiratory conditions—come from cars, buses, and trucks. Residents in heavily trafficked or industrial areas breathe in dangerously polluted air daily, putting their health on the line.
The incorporation of electric, propane, natural gas, and renewable energy-powered vehicles offers lifesaving potential. From school children riding emission-free buses to communities gaining access to cleaner, breathable air, these grants deliver far-reaching impacts.
A Model for Nationwide Change
With a growing national movement toward electric and low-emission transportation, Pennsylvania’s efforts set a benchmark for others to follow. Funding programs like AFIG don’t just replace vehicles—they inspire economic innovation, foster green technology, and put communities at the center of the climate conversation.
Acting Secretary Shirley emphasized the importance of partnerships, saying the projects represent a comprehensive solution balancing environmental priorities with practical, people-first outcomes. With the Shapiro Administration at the helm, the state continues to affirm its pledge to environmental justice, aligning with global trends toward carbon neutrality and clean energy solutions.
The Path Forward
This $2.55 million investment may be just the start of Pennsylvania’s more aggressive efforts to fight air pollution. By focusing on modern infrastructure and sustainable transportation, the Commonwealth is paving the way for a healthier tomorrow.
Pennsylvania’s vision is clear. Each electric bus, every gallon of gasoline replaced, and every EV charging station launched signals commitment—not just to the environment but to generations of Pennsylvanians who deserve clean air, healthier communities, and a brighter future.
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