Atlanta Gets a Green Makeover with New Electric Vehicles
Hey there, Atlanta! We’ve got some exciting news that’s sure to brighten your day. The city has just been awarded a whopping $3.2 million from the federal government to help make our streets a little cleaner and greener! Thanks to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Atlanta is set to replace a fleet of heavy-duty vehicles used for public works with brand new zero-emission electric vehicles!
Out with the Old
What does this mean? Well, the city plans to swap out a total of eleven heavy-duty vehicles that currently run on diesel, including:
- Seven diesel street sweepers
- Three class 6 diesel utility trucks
- Two class 7 diesel utility trucks
- One class 6 diesel refuse hauler
- Four class 6 diesel shuttles
In their place, we’ll get electric-powered alternatives that will do a fantastic job while keeping our air cleaner.
Charging Ahead with EcoFleet ATL
But that’s not all! The city’s initiative, known as EcoFleet ATL, will also roll out eleven 150kW DC fast Level 3 chargers at four different City of Atlanta-owned locations. Here’s where you’ll find them:
- Three at Atlanta Fleet Service Headquarters on Claire Drive
- One at the Department of Watershed Management’s (DWM) Hemphill Water Treatment lot on Howell Mill Road
- Two at the DWM’s Bureau of Drinking Water Building on 14th Street
- Five at the Department of Aviation on ASR Road
These charging stations will ensure that our new electric vehicles can stay powered up and ready to roll!
A Nationwide Effort for Cleaner Air
The funding for these exciting changes comes from the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant program, part of the Inflation Reduction Act. This program is all about replacing old diesel vehicles with zero-emission versions and supporting the build-out of clean vehicle infrastructure.
Acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle expressed enthusiasm for this program, stating, “EPA’s Southeast Region is excited to have eight selectees across six of our states for this new funding program, which will focus on communities with poor air quality. With at least $400 million of this funding going to communities located in areas designated nonattainment for having air pollution levels persistently exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, the selected projects will focus on improvements to air quality in areas where it is most needed and be very impactful.”
What This Means for Atlanta
So, what’s the big picture here? This initiative not only substitutes older, polluting vehicles with cleaner alternatives but also helps to reduce emissions, making Atlanta a healthier place to live, work, and play. Imagine cleaner air, reduced noise pollution from diesel engines, and the satisfaction of knowing that our city is taking active steps toward sustainability.
As this initiative develops, both city officials and the community look forward to seeing the benefits roll in. It’s not just about shiny new vehicles; it’s about investing in our city’s future and environment. Help spread the word and share your excitement about Atlanta’s commitment to becoming a greener, cleaner city!
Stay Informed!
Want to keep up to date with how Atlanta is going green and other city initiatives? Be sure to follow all the latest news and updates happening right in our vibrant city. Together, let’s cheer on our efforts toward a sustainable future!
