Grants to fund projects that reduce diesel emissions

More than $120,000 is available for Greater Kansas City fleet owners

Public and private fleet owners in Jackson, Clay, Ray, Clinton, Cass, Buchanan and Platte counties may be eligible to apply for reimbursements for the purchase and installation of devices that reduce emissions or use fuel more efficiently. The total amount of funding available for awards is more than $120,000.

Any diesel-fleet owner or operator with on-road or off-road heavy- or medium-duty diesel vehicles or equipment may apply for funding. Eligible projects include those that propose purchasing and installing approved diesel-emission-control equipment, idle-reduction equipment and SmartWay technology. Other projects, such as engine re-powers and early vehicle replacements, may also be eligible.

The reimbursements are being offered by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources as the result of a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency. Grants are available statewide; the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) is administering the funds for the Kansas City region.

Applicants may submit proposals in response to the request for proposals (RFP) posted on the MARC Web site at www.marc.org/rfp.htm. All eligible applications will be put into a lottery drawing to be held April 30 that will determine which projects are selected for funding. Applications must be submitted to MARC by 5 p.m., April 16. For more information, visit www.marc.org/Environment/airQ/cleandiesel.asp.