The Carbon Reduction Program provides $6.4 billion dollars to states and metropolitan planning organizations, like MARC, to fund projects designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the on-road transportation system. Funds are available for five years (2022-2026). The program was established under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,
The first round of programming includes three years of funding — $8.4 million for Missouri projects and $5.6 million for Kansas projects. The remaining two years of funding will be programmed along with MARC’s other sub-allocated federal transportation programs in 2024.
This new program offers an opportunity for local governments to support local priorities that also reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector and support regional progress towards net zero emissions by 2050.
Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:
- Bicycle and pedestrian facilities
- Public transportation infrastructure
- Nature-based solutions in transportation rights-of-way
- Alternative fuel projects
- Traffic control and management facilities
- Transportation demand management
A full list of eligible projects can be found in the federal guidance for the program.
Up to half of the Carbon Reduction Program funds will support projects that are green, transportation alternatives — non-single occupant vehicle transportation infrastructure. These projects include green infrastructure along streets, bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and public transportation. The balance of funds can be used for all project types eligible under this program.
Eligible applicants include local governments, transportation agencies and nonprofits. State rules allow for nonprofits to apply. Project sponsors must be within MARC’s eight-county metropolitan planning area.
Projects will be scored based on reduction in carbon emissions, transportation impacts, sustainability co-benefits, community engagement, social equity and partnerships. Once projects are submitted, the public will be able to review and comment on each project.
A Carbon Reduction Program work group, established in coordination with the Total Transportation Policy Committee, Climate and Environment Council, Sustainable Places Policy Committees and Air Quality Forum, will review scores and public comments, and develop a recommended list of projects to receive funds.
A hybrid pre-application workshop will be held on April 7, 2023, from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The workshop will cover all aspects of the program and allow participants to ask questions. Participation in this workshop is encouraged, but not required. A workshop recording will be made available. Additionally, MARC staff will hold virtual office hours four times during April and May to help prospective applicants with developing a project concept, completing applications, calculating carbon emissions or answering other questions.
