Clean Cities Grant Awarded To
West Michigan Strategic Alliance

Gov. Jennifer Granholm and Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth (DLEG) Director Keith W. Cooley recently announced a $24,500 matching grant has been awarded to the West Michigan Strategic Alliance to establish a Clean Cities Coalition. The focus of the regional initiative will be developing local markets for alternative transportation fuels, refueling sites and clean vehicle technologies and supporting alternative fuel corridor growth in West Michigan

"This award contributes additional resources to West Michigan, which can leverage the interests of many citizens, businesses and public agencies in buying alternative fuels and the clean technologies that use them," said Granholm. Cooley said that "increasing demand for alternative fuels and alternative fuel vehicles as in-state supplies are becoming available will stimulate Michigan's economy while contributing to a healthier environment for our residents through lower vehicle emissions."

WMSA plans to use the grant to support development of Alternative Fuel Corridors along I-96 between Grand Rapids and Muskegon, and I-196 between Grand Rapids and Holland. These corridors will include both alternative fuel infrastructure and truck stops with idle reduction technologies. "Many organizations in West Michigan have been pursuing objectives designed to achieve regional sustainability," stated Greg Northrup, WMSA president. "This initiative demonstrates our continuing commitment to improving our quality of life."

Also, the grant will help West Michigan (including Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Muskegon, Newaygo and Ottawa counties) join the national Clean Cities Coalition, a network of more than 85 cities and regions in 44 states designated as strategic partners by the U.S. Department of Energy. Other Michigan Clean Cities coalitions are located in the Detroit metro area, WashtenawCounty and the greater Lansing/Tri-County area.

The Clean Cities program was established by the U.S. Department of Energy to promote the use of alternative fuel vehicles and alternative fuels. The program offers guidelines for planning, technical assistance and access to financial resources to demonstrate alternative fuels and AFV benefits. 

Funding is made available through a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The program is administered by the DLEG Energy Office.