Chicago announces infrastructure grants to combat climate change

The City of Chicago has announced the recipients of its latest Climate Infrastructure Fund grants that aim to help neighbourhoods transition to a green economy and combat the effects of climate change.

Twenty-two small businesses and non-profits will receive grants ranging from US$75,000 to US$250,000, which will help pay for projects covering renewable energy and fossil-free energy efficiency; electric vehicles and charging stations; “green” stormwater management upgrades; and other improvements that promote neighbourhood resiliency.

“These Climate Infrastructure Fund grants mark a significant stride towards a greener, more resilient Chicago, aligning with our city’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions by 62 percent by 2040,” said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.

“By supporting these innovative projects, we are not just addressing climate change but fostering a healthier and more sustainable future for our communities.”

The grants – totalling US$3.7 million – are funded by proceeds from a 2021 bond issue associated with the Chicago Recovery Plan.

Projects

Eleven EV-related projects funded through the scheme will aim to reduce awardees’ dependence on petrol and diesel vehicles while expanding the number of charging locations in underserved neighbourhoods.

Examples include ChiFresh Kitchen, a worker cooperative owned by former prisoners, which will begin decarbonising its fleet with the purchase of two e-transit vans and the installation of two charging stations at its South Shore facility. And Imani Village, a mixed-use community development, that will purchase EVs and two charging stations to help showcase the benefits of fleet electrification to the organisation’s advocates and tenants.

Other projects include a community “peace garden” planned by the Historic Pullman Empowerment Organization, which will provide natural landscaping for recreation, and a rooftop garden planned by The Insect Asylum which will offer native landscaping for outdoor education.

“Nearly 70 percent of Chicago’s greenhouse gas emissions are from buildings,” said Angela Tovar, Chicago’s Chief Sustainability Officer.

“The Climate Infrastructure Fund provides essential funding for small businesses and non-profit organisations to adopt clean energy strategies that will result in lowering emissions across Chicago while reducing operating costs, improving indoor air quality, and increasing comfort for building occupants.”

Finalists were selected from 88 proposals submitted during a six-month application period last year.

Proposals were reviewed by an advisory committee consisting of climate and non-profit professionals and city staff, and evaluations were based on a variety of factors including neighbourhood equity, climate impact, readiness and community benefits.

A previous funding round announced in May 2023 awarded grants totalling US$6.2 million for 32 businesses and non-profits.

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