In a significant step toward addressing the climate crisis, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced nearly $70 million in combined funding for ambitious projects in Louisiana.
The funding aims to reduce pollution and enhancing community resilience. It includes $19,944,576 granted to Dillard University in partnership with United Way of Southeast Louisiana and an additional $49,975,589 allocated to the City of New Orleans through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program.
“I’m excited to celebrate the tremendous strides being made in our fight against the climate crisis and to recognize the impactful work being done right here in Southeast Louisiana,” says Louisanna Rep.Troy A. Carter, Sr. “The grants we are highlighting today represent more than just financial support – they symbolize our collective commitment to environmental justice, sustainability, and the health of our communities. Together, we are building a brighter, greener future.”
Dillard University’s Plan
Dillard University will utilize its substantial grant to implement innovative strategies that bolster community resilience against natural disasters while tackling local pollution levels. The funding will specifically target the St. Tammany and Washington Parishes, encouraging sustainable transportation solutions by providing up to 300 families with electric bikes, expanding bike-sharing programs, and installing electric vehicle chargers throughout the region. These initiatives aim to enhance mobility options for residents and reduce reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles.
“Today marks a pivotal moment for Dillard University and the Greater New Orleans community as we celebrate this transformational grant from the EPA,” said Dillard University Interim President Dr. Monique Guillory. “This funding reflects our dedication to sustainability and resilience and highlights the power of collaboration with our community partners. Together, we are poised to address critical environmental challenges and empower our community, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for all.”
In addition to improving transportation access, Dillard plans to retrofit several buildings with energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, solar panels, and energy storage solutions. These upgrades will transform select facilities into community resilience hubs, ensuring that local residents have safe and reliable spaces to gather during emergencies. Moreover, the university will launch new non-degree certificate programs focused on clean energy and climate resilience.
New Orleans’ Goals
On the other hand, the funding awarded to the City of New Orleans represents a comprehensive strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The city’s initiatives will improve access to non-vehicle transportation options, encourage energy efficiency in large buildings, install rooftop solar panels, and enhance urban green spaces. A notable goal within this framework is the expansion of the Blue Bikes share program to 2,000 bikes, particularly targeting historically underserved areas. The city also aims to create safer pathways for cyclists and encourage greater use of sustainable transportation by constructing seven miles of protected bikeways adjoining downtown.
Furthermore, New Orleans plans to plant 7,500 trees in underserved neighborhoods over the next five years. Its plan also includes retrofitting 41 city-owned buildings with rooftop solar panels on 14 municipal properties.
“Our community’s strength lies in our collaboration, and today we celebrate the transformative climate investments made possible by the EPA and the Biden-Harris Administration,” said New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “This historic level of funding will empower us to create a more resilient, sustainable New Orleans while directly addressing the needs of our residents. Together, we are leading the charge toward a brighter, greener future.”
