Please also see the VLCT ARRA page for more ARRA specific grants.
National Award for Smart Growth Achievement
The EPA is now accepting applications for the 2010 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement. This competition is open to public- and private-sector entities that have successfully used smart growth principles to improve communities environmentally, socially, and economically. Up to five awards will be given in Programs, Policies, and Regulations; Smart Growth and Green Building; Civic Places; Rural Smart Growth; and Overall Excellence. For more information about the award program and to learn how to apply, go to www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/awards.htm. Deadline: April 5, 2010.
2010 Smart Growth Implementation Assistance Program
EPA is now accepting letters of interest for the 2010 round of the Smart Growth Implementation Assistance (SGIA) Program. EPA, with the assistance of the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Transportation, is offering direct technical assistance from national experts to communities, tribes, regions, and states that want to incorporate smart growth techniques in their development. EPA also wants to identify and document innovative solutions to complex problems faced by communities as they seek to incorporate smart growth practices. EPA expects to select up to four applicants for assistance this year.
For more information about the 2010 application process, visit epa.gov/smartgrowth/2010_0128_rfli.html. For more information about the SGIA program, go to www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/sgia.htm. Letters of interest due April 9, 2010.
Clean Energy Development Fund
The Department of Public Service is seeking proposals for projects that promote the development and deployment of cost-effective and environmentally sustainable electric power and thermal energy or geothermal resources, primarily with respect to renewable energy resources, and the use of combined heat and power technologies, for the long-term benefit of Vermont consumers. Deadline, March 12, 2010. Read the entire RFP here.
EPA Seeks Applications for Environmental Community Grants
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is making $2 million available in 2010 to reduce pollution at the local level through the Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) program. CARE is a community-based program that works with county and local governments, tribes, non-profit organizations, and universities to help the public understand and reduce toxic risks from numerous sources. More information is available at www.epa.gov/care/.
EECBG Grants
The deadline for filing Energy Efficiency and Conservation Grant applications was December 8. The Vermont Department of Public Service received 325 applications totaling $11 million from eligible cities, towns, villages, and school districts. One hundred and sixty-two projects with a combined total request of $6.7 million have been invited to submit comprehensive applications for the $5.8 million of available funding (increased from the original $4.8 million). Click here to see the list of applicants invited to submit final applications.
Vermont regional commissions received county-specific grants for energy efficiency by successfully appealing to the U.S. Department of Energy for ARRA dollars that in other states were allocated to counties. Details here.
Applications are now being accepted for USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Loans and Grants. Details here.
The Municipal Planning Grant Program is on hold due to recent state revenue downgrades and subsequent budget rescissions. It may be revived in the spring of 2010 if adequate funding is available. Contact DEHCD planning coordinators Sue Minter (828-3119) or Faith Ingulsrud (828-5228) with questions.
