In a bid to boost sustainable transportation options, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a $32 million investment for the Clean Mobility Program. This initiative aims to support various projects, including micromobility concepts, shuttles, and ridesharing services, to address local transportation needs and promote cleaner air quality.
The Clean Mobility Program offers two funding tracks: the Planning Track and the Demonstration Track. The Planning Track provides up to $100,000 for projects focused on community engagement, site identification, and technical feasibility analysis. On the other hand, the Demonstration Track offers up to $3 million for implementing mobility services in communities, with the goal of creating sustainable models that can be replicated in other parts of New York State.
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Projects eligible for funding include personal or shared bikes, e-bikes, e-scooters, on-demand electric vehicle ride-hailing, and small-scale, on-demand public transit services with flexible routes or shared electric vehicle options.
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of these investments in advancing New York’s transportation sector and making clean transportation options more accessible and affordable for residents. “Investments in innovative electric mobility solutions are driving real change that will help meet the everyday needs of New Yorkers while reducing emissions from our roadways,” she stated.
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A quarter of the budget, $8 million, has been allocated for demonstration projects in areas served by upstate investor-owned utilities. This includes $5 million for projects in the Central Hudson, National Grid, New York State Electric & Gas, and Rochester Electric & Gas region, and $3 million for micromobility projects in the Bronx in New York City.
Local governments, transit operators, and community-based organizations have until August 15, 2024, to apply for the grants, which are managed by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).
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“Developing a clean-energy transportation system is a win-win for New York and for consumers,” remarked New York State Public Service Commission Chairman Rory M. Christian. “Engaging communities in this program, particularly low-income communities, will help the state’s overall economy and create a cleaner environment.”
