By U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

DENVER, Colo. -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded the Utah Department of Environmental Quality a $2.3 million grant under the National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program to reduce diesel emissions from heavy-duty trucks and school buses based in several counties along the Wasatch Front, an area challenged by levels of particulate matter that exceed federal air quality standards.

"EPA’s clean diesel grants support local and regional efforts to secure healthier air in our communities," said EPA Regional Administrator, Doug Benevento. "Over the past decade, the state of Utah has established exemplary partnerships with local governments and businesses to prioritize clean diesel investments and retrofit and replace high-emitting vehicles. EPA will continue to support our partners as they address air quality challenges along the Wasatch Front."

"In addition to the air quality benefits that result from these projects, DEQ appreciates the opportunity to collaborate with different organizations to upgrade their fleets," said DEQ Executive Director, Alan Matheson. "This funding assistance is a win-win for Utah businesses and the local airshed."

Utah DEQ will use the EPA clean diesel grant to replace short and long-haul diesel trucks with current model year vehicles that have the most stringent emissions standards available at the time of replacement. In addition, several diesel school buses will be replaced with current model year school buses powered by clean diesel, low-NOx, compressed natural gas engines or propane. The majority of these vehicles will operate in Davis, Salt Lake, Tooele, Utah and Weber counties, all designated nonattainment for particulate matter.