New York State has unveiled a 32 million dollars Clean Mobility Program to fund shared electric transportation solutions.
Aimed at reducing emissions and enhancing access to services, the program prioritises disadvantaged communities, supporting the state’s ambitious goal of an 85 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a new 32 million Clean Mobility dollars Program designed to support shared electric transportation solutions such as micro mobility, shuttles, and ridesharing services.
This initiative will provide funding for community-led planning and demonstration projects that aim to reduce emissions, address local transportation needs, and connect residents to essential services, jobs, and transit.
This announcement aligns with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act’s target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85 per cent by 2050.
Governor Hochul emphasised New York’s commitment to electrifying its transportation sector and making clean public transportation options more accessible and affordable statewide.
“Investments in innovative eMobility solutions are driving real change that will help meet the everyday needs of New Yorkers while reducing emissions from our roadways and improving the air quality in our communities as a result,” she said.
Administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the program will provide competitive funding to local governments, transit operators, and community-based organisations for projects that advance clean mobility options.
Eligible projects include personal or shared bikes, eBikes, eScooters, on-demand electric vehicle ride-hailing, and small-scale public transit services with flexible routes or shared electric vehicle options.
Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of NYSERDA, highlighted the importance of scaling up clean mobility options to create a sustainable transportation system.
“We look forward to partnering with municipalities, transportation providers, and community-based organisations to bring forward solutions that help to cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce congestion on our roads, and foster greener communities across the state,” she said.
The program offers two funding tracks.
The Planning Track, with up to 100,000 dollars for planning mobility services, including community engagement, site identification, and technical feasibility analysis.
And the Demonstration Track, with up to 3 million dollars for implementing mobility services, with the aim of making them sustainable and exemplary for other regions in New York State.
Applicants can find more information and apply for the program until August 15, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. ET. A second round may launch in summer 2025 for remaining funds.
Additionally, 8 million dollars of the 32 million dollars is allocated for demonstration projects in specific state areas, including 5 million dollars for micro mobility projects in regions served by upstate investor-owned utilities and 3 million dollars for projects in the Bronx.
Rory M. Christian, Chairman of the New York State Public Service Commission, underscored the dual benefits of a clean-energy transportation system for both the state and consumers.
“Engaging communities in this program, particularly low-income communities, will help the state’s overall economy and help create a cleaner environment,” he said.
Marie Therese Dominguez, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Transportation, praised Governor Hochul’s investment in clean and sustainable transportation infrastructure.
“NYSDOT is proud to partner with our many state and federal partners to advance innovative transportation solutions which help create a more vibrant and resilient future for all,” she stated.
This initiative is part of New York’s nearly 3 billion dollars investment in zero-emission vehicles and clean transit to benefit all residents, particularly those in low-income or disadvantaged areas.
It complements other state zero-emission transportation initiatives, including the New York Clean Transportation Prizes program and the New York Cap-and-Invest program, aimed at achieving a 40 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and an 85 per cent reduction by 2050.
Funded through a combination of Clean Energy Fund, Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, and Micro mobility Make-Ready funds, the Clean Mobility Program is a significant step in New York State’s nation-leading climate agenda.
This agenda aims to create family-sustaining jobs, foster a green economy, and ensure that at least 35 per cent, with a goal of 40 per cent, of clean energy investments benefit disadvantaged communities.
