Tour Promotes Clean Transportation, Economic Growth, and Climate Solutions as Pennsylvania Communities Benefit from federal EV Investments.
PITTSBURGH, PA – September 12, 2024 – Today, State Senator Lindsey Williams and public health advocates gathered at Highland Park in Pittsburgh for a press conference to celebrate the city’s progress in clean energy adoption, driven by investments from the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).
Speakers highlighted Pittsburgh and Allegheny County’s commitment to electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and clean transportation initiatives, which are working to make communities healthier and more resilient in the face of climate change. This event, part of the Clean Energy REVolution Tour, also showcased Pittsburgh’s efforts to reduce carbon pollution through investments in EVs, clean public transit, and energy efficiency programs that reduce pollution from the transportation sector and lower energy costs for local residents.
Senator Lindsey Williams emphasized the importance of clean transportation investments for Pittsburgh’s future. “The Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are allowing us to think big and solve problems regionally. Our water, and our air, and our environment don’t stop at municipal boundaries. This is our chance to use this once-in-a-generation funding to evaluate and improve upon how our current and future systems will benefit and protect this entire region today and in the future.”
Pittsburgh City Councilwoman, Erika Strassburger noted that the federal funds are helping Pittsburgh lead in the clean energy revolution “Pittsburgh can and will serve as a leader for a robust clean energy and clean transportation future. We will continue to work with our federal partners that are providing the IRA and BIL funding for these projects, as well as the state and local partners to implement these programs that are transforming our city for the better.”
Speakers also noted how BIL investments are helping to provide school districts with rebates to replace older school buses with clean all electric models. “EPA’s Clean School Bus program is more than a program to purchase new buses. It’s an investment in our children, communities, and environment,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “The Biden-Harris Administration has made clear that every student in every school district deserves a cleaner, safer, and healthier ride to school.”
Vanessa Lynch, Pennsylvania Field Organizer, Moms Clean Air Force, spoke about the direct impact of transportation pollution on public health. “The recent investments from the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are transforming Pittsburgh’s environmental landscape and improving the health of our communities. From expanding clean public transportation options to enhancing our urban tree canopy, these initiatives are not just combating climate change – they’re creating a healthier, more equitable future for our children. As mothers, we’re encouraged to see concrete steps towards cleaner air and a more resilient Pittsburgh, but we must remain vigilant and continue to support investments at the federal, state, and local levels in programs that prioritize the health of our families and the environment.”
Speakers also addressed the economic incentives of transitioning to clean transportation. “Investing in clean transportation not only protects our health and environment but also delivers significant long-term savings for both local governments and consumers,” said Emily Phan-Gruber, Board Secretary, Pittsburgh Region Clean Cities. “By transitioning to electric vehicles and other clean transportation solutions, Pittsburgh, Allegheny County and other municipalities around the region will save on fleet maintenance and fuel costs, allowing those savings to be reinvested in our communities. The reduced cost of ownership for consumers, thanks to federal incentives from the IRA and BIL, ensures that everyone benefits from a cleaner, more sustainable future.”
About the Clean Energy REVolution Tour
The Climate Action Campaign’s Clean Energy REVolution Tour is a 6-state, 6-week tour highlighting, celebrating, and driving climate progress. The Clean Energy REVolution Tour will spotlight key local investments delivered by two historic legislative achievements: the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).
A video of the event is available HERE. Photos from the event are available HERE.