Tuesday, February 13th 2024, 3:34pm
Boulder County, CO — The county has selected the 2024 recipients of Boulder County Environmental Sustainability Matching Grants. Recipients include the cities and towns of Boulder, Erie, Jamestown, Lafayette, Longmont, Louisville, Lyons, Nederland, and Superior. This program offers financial support to government organizations within the county for environmental sustainability projects. These grants are designed to address the unique needs of each community, while also encouraging collaboration in advancing environmental sustainability throughout the county.
This year's grants will award a total of $620,456 to support a variety of sustainability initiatives. These include helping commercial landscapers switch to electric equipment; creating solutions to cool down neighborhoods facing extreme heat; and offering programs and rebates to conserve energy and use clean energy for buildings.
“In Boulder County, we're turning our climate and sustainability goals into reality, one project at a time,” said Commissioner Claire Levy. “This $620,000 investment across nine communities isn't just about funding; it's a testament to our collective commitment to a sustainable future. Together, we're not only addressing today's challenges but building a better, healthier, and more resilient tomorrow.”
“I am continually inspired by the project ideas emerging from across the communities in Boulder County,” said Boulder County Senior Sustainability Strategist Lea Yancey. “This year’s selection of projects, ranging from climate resiliency cooling solutions to waste services, highlights the importance of place-based, community-led strategies. The combination of local insights with county-wide resources creates some truly impactful environmental solutions."
The Sustainability Matching Grant Program was established in 2014 to support efforts that advance sustainability priorities in Boulder County communities. Incorporated cities or towns located within Boulder County are eligible to apply for funding proportionate to community population. The municipality must provide a 25% match of the dollar amount requested.
The 2024 grant program is funded through revenue from the Sustainability Tax. County voters approved this tax in a November 2016 ballot initiative, dedicating a portion of sales and use tax revenue to fund sustainability infrastructure and programs. This includes grants for cities and towns in the county, aimed at sustainability initiatives that address the priority needs of their communities.
Selected Projects:
City of Boulder, $215,990: To continue supporting the transition to electric commercial-grade landscaping equipment and to pilot a new approach to urban forestry expansion.
Town of Erie, $30,275: For residential and business rebates for decarbonization technologies, including air-source heat pumps, ground-source heat pumps, induction cooktops, solar panels, electric vehicle charging, and battery storage.
Town of Jamestown, $15,000: To enhance waste diversion by continuing recycling efforts; to repair and expand the community ditch; and to improve the community vegetable garden.
City of Lafayette, $63,151: To finalize a climate action plan; to convert fire station turf to xeriscape landscaping; and to improve recycling opportunities at city parks.
City of Longmont, $201,368: To boost resilience to extreme heat through building electrification for low-income households and neighborhood cooling solutions; and to enhance recycling at city parks.
City of Louisville, $39,649: To hire a sustainability specialist to implement Louisville's Sustainability Action Plan and decarbonization strategies.
Town of Lyons, $15,000: For consulting services to convert streetlights to energy-efficient LEDs, conserving energy and reducing light pollution.
Town of Nederland, $15,000: To hire a part-time sustainability coordinator to support community-wide sustainability goals and regional collaboration efforts.
Town of Superior, $25,023: To develop a roadmap for energy efficiency and electrification in municipal facilities, leading by example.