Yesterday, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center + the Department of Energy Resources announced $5 million in grant funding will be awarded to 10 transportation projects across the state. What do these projects have in common? They not only provide innovative solutions for climate action, but serve disadvantaged communities at the same time. Here’s who’s getting funded in Boston and how they plan to spend the money.
The City of Boston
💰 $492,286
The city has received a grant for its work in Allston, an Environmental Justice Population area. The city’s program will pilot e-cargo bike deliveries for citizens + businesses, with plans to expand program learnings to other municipalities in the state.
Massachusetts Port Authority
💰 $615,000
Massport has spearheaded community initiatives like the South Boston Maritime Park in its history of providing transportation services. With the grant money, Logan Airport will build more infrastructure for electric vehicles, along with incentivizing more EVs in ride shares, to help reduce emissions. Resulting emissions reductions will aid surrounding communities.
Metro Mobility
💰 $1,000,000
This company seeks to address the problems that come with urban transportation — you may know them as the owners of Park & Pedal e-bikes, which help drivers transition from cars to e-bikes for their commutes. Metro Mobility’s grant will go towards establishing three e-bike ownership and share models in Greater Boston while partnering with affordable housing organizations to best serve low-income residents.
Way Forward Taxi Alliance
💰 $500,000 awarded
A non-profit group working to create a climate-friendly taxicab industry across the state, with diverse leadership including taxi drivers + owners. The grant will finance Way Forward’s incentive program for electric taxis in Boston that centers around minority-owned taxi companies.
