The agreement provides funding under the inflation reduction act (IRA) to golden empire transit to replace in-use, non-zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles with new zero-emission vehicles to reduce air…

The agreement provides funding under the inflation reduction act (IRA) to golden empire transit to replace in-use, non-zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles with new zero-emission vehicles to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in EPA region 9. The recipient will replace several eligible vehicles with comparable, eligible zero-emission vehicles under the vocational vehicles sub-program, resulting in cleaner air and improved health for communities in bakersfield, california. This assistance agreement provides full federal funding in the amount of $4,503,380. See terms and conditions. Activities:the activities include replacing eligible internal combustion engine class 6 vehicles with eligible zero-emission vehicles; purchasing, installing, operating, and maintaining charging and fueling equipment to maintain the new zero-emission vehicles; and providing workforce development and training to support the maintenance, charging, fueling, and operation of the new zero-emission vehicles. Subrecipient:golden empire transit plans to partner with 3 subawardees to implement portions of the project, including: - one subaward to develop a community engagement plan, and participate in outreach events focused on zero emission technology - one subaward to develop workforce development plan and program involving zero emissions bus and station maintenance - one subaward to develop a workforce development program focused on hydrogen fueling station maintenance outcomes:the anticipated deliverables include replacing several compressed natural gas buses with hydrogen fuel cell and electric buses; construction of a gaseous fueling station; one smart grid that includes a solar, battery, and energy management system; and installation of level 3 chargers. Workforce development training will be conducted to teach staff about zero-emission technology and how to safely manage, maintain, service, and operate zero-emission buses. Community engagement activities will also be held. The expected outcomes include reduced carbon dioxide and other air pollutant emissions, reduced noise pollution, reduced asthma-related illnesses, increased local jobs, expanded charging infrastructure, and increased public awareness of the environmental and economic effectiveness of the implemented technology. The intended beneficiaries include golden empire transit (grantee), the project partners, and the bus passengers. Other beneficiaries include disadvantaged community residents who will benefit from improved ambient air quality in communities in which the vehicles operate.