Arizona Launches VW Settlement Fund Information Website
PHOENIX — The Office of Grants and Federal Resources at the Arizona Department of Administration (ADOA) has launched an information page for interested organizations and citizens concerning the recent settlements with German automaker Volkswagen AG (VW).
The website, https://vwsettlement.az.gov/, will serve as a resource for the public and will include timelines, updates and dates of stakeholder meetings, for both Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) projects and for projects that reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.
The Governor’s Office, in partnership with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and ADOA, intends to solicit input from its public and private partners as the State’s mitigation plan is developed in the coming months. Interested parties can be added to the stakeholder list by entering their information in the “submit a comment” section at the bottom of the webpage.
Over the next 10 years, the State of Arizona will receive nearly $53 million dollars in settlement funds for projects that reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in areas of the state significantly affected by diesel emissions. Projects could include replacing or repowering eligible large trucks, buses, freight switchers, ferries/tugs, medium trucks and other vehicles with new diesel or alternative fuel engines, or all-electric engines. Fifteen percent of each state’s allocation also can be used to acquire, install, operate and maintain new light duty zero emission vehicle supply equipment.
Additionally, in the overall settlement with VW, $1.2 billion was set aside for investment in ZEV projects nationally over a 10-year period. The State will work with interested stakeholders to identify and support projects that can be submitted for funding. Eligible ZEV investments include: the design, planning, construction, installation, operation and maintenance of ZEV infrastructure; the development of brand-neutral education and public outreach campaigns; and programs to increase public exposure or access to ZEVs.
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