CTDOT Celebrates Earth Day 2023

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Web Version     Connecticut Department of Transportation CTDOT Celebrates Earth Day 2023 Posted on April 21 , 2023 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is joining other state DOTs, transit agencies, advocates, and groups nationwide to celebrate Earth Day 2023. This year marks the 53rd anniversary of Earth Day, and the theme, Invest in Our Planet, is deeply connected to the work of CTDOT. "We are doing everything we can at CTDOT to reduce transportation emissions through smart  infrastructure and service investments. We know the transportation sector is the single largest source of carbon emissions in Connecticut, and we have a responsibility to be part of the team making strides to protect our environment and natural resources for future generations," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Everything we do at CTDOT is rooted in advancing three principles: safety, accessibility, and sustainability. With these priorities guiding us, we are improving safety for all users of our systems, removing barriers to public transportation, and making smart, cost-effective investments to reduce carbon emissions." On Earth Day 2023, CTDOT is providing an update on its continued investments, programs, and policies to create a cleaner and healthier environment. These include: EV Charging Infrastructure CTDOT has installed more than 20 Level 2 electric vehicle charging ports at its headquarters to be used for light-duty fleet vehicles. There are additional 30 Level 2 chargers available for guests and employees. CTDOT will be electrifying its entire fleet of light-duty vehicles and building infrastructure across its facilities. The NEVI Plan As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, $5 billion will be dedicated to the new National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program to deploy electric vehicle chargers throughout the state strategically. Pollinator Program CTDOT has 116 conservation areas comprised of approximately 200 acres of state property. These areas provide critical habitats for pollinating insects, such as bees and monarch butterflies, with more sites being added annually. These special pollinator corridors are created through reduced mowing and wildflower plantings. For more information on the Pollinator Program, visit Section 7 of the CTDOT Vegetation Management Guidelines. Cleaning Up Roadways CTDOT crews spend countless hours cleaning up litter, debris, and trash from Connecticut roadways every year. The work is ongoing to protect the environment and keep motorists safe. CTDOT reminds the public the highway is not a trash can and to dispose of materials properly.  Reduction to Vehicle Miles Traveled Under Executive Order 21-3, CTDOT was directed to set a reduction target for vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and develop a plan of investments to influence the reductions. CTDOT has proposed a target VMT per person reduction of 5% by 2030, which is equivalent to 1.21 miles less per person each day and 433.17 miles fewer per person each year. Drive Less Challenge The Drive Less Connecticut Challenge is an annual event that runs from Earth Day through the end of May to encourage residents to drive less and instead use the state's bus and rail systems or carpool, vanpool, bike, or walk. The campaign's goals this year are to eliminate 275,000 pounds of emissions, eliminate 20,000 car trips, and reduce the miles driven by single-occupant vehicles by 300,000 miles. For more information, visit CTrides.com/DLC.  Renewable Energy Under Executive Order 21-3, CTDOT identifies opportunities to deploy solar on its properties and in state Right of Way. Through the CT Green Bank, CTDOT executed multiple power purchase agreements, including adding a 2.2-megawatt solar canopy at the CTDOT headquarters in Newington, and a 1-megawatt solar installation at the CTtransit facility in Hamden. Studies are underway looking at various installations along Right of Way areas and at hundreds of additional CTDOT facilities.  Community Connectivity Grant Program The Community Connectivity Grant Program provides construction funding for local initiatives to improve safety and accessibility for bicyclists and pedestrians in and around community centers. More than 100 grants totaling $38 million have been awarded across the state. An additional $12 million is available in grants this year. The deadline to apply is July 21. Through operational changes, service improvements, grant programs, and infrastructure investments, CTDOT works daily to create a cleaner, safer transportation network.  To find out how you can get involved and make a difference in your community on Earth Day, visit EarthDay.org. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly