The Environmental Protection Agency announced Monday that an Arkansas coalition of municipal planners has been named the recipient of a $100 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant award for energy innovation.

Metroplan, the central Arkansas urban planning agency, teamed with the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission and the city of Fort Smith to form the Arkansas Tri-Region CPRG Coalition, which submitted a proposal seeking a CPRG grant. The proposal, titled “Energy and Environment Innovation for the Natural State,” was one of 25 from across the country selected by the EPA for CPRG funding. Metroplan served as the lead agency on the proposal.

The grant will fund projects throughout central Arkansas, northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas River Valley, an area representing half of the state’s population. Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde, Metroplan board president, said the award is a testament to the group’s commitment to environmental stewardship as well as a call to action.

“We stand at the forefront of an ambitious journey to foster a sustainable future for our community,” he said. “Together with the EPA, we will implement innovative solutions that will significantly improve our environment and quality of life. We are honored to be among the select few to spearhead these transformative programs.”

The award will fund projects to sequester and reduce emissions by protecting and restoring natural areas, increasing efficiency and improving access to active transportation and transit, according to a press release. Projects such as LED streetlights and EV charging are intended to reduce emissions from the transportation sector and building efficiency funding will support net-zero technologies for public and commercial buildings. Projects will be designed to ensure equitable access to the environmental benefits funded by the grant.

“By preserving critical outdoor spaces, enhancing active transportation and demonstrating innovative energy solutions, the CPRG implementation funding will be transformative for the Natural State and our state’s growing economy and tourism,” said Metroplan Executive Director Casey Covington. “Our coalition’s selection for an award speaks to the benefits of partnerships among and within regions to achieve common energy and environment innovation goals.”

The coalition partnered with more than 50 communities, agencies and organizations across three regions to develop projects and programs included in the proposal. It received support from the state and from the state’s congressional delegation.

Fayetteville Mayor Lioneld Jordan said funds from the award will support the city’s recently adopted climate action plan.

“This grant brings us one step closer to achieving nature-based solutions at the city and regional level,” he said.

In Fort Smith, award funds will support projects within the city’s energy and environment innovation plan.

“We are honored to be selected to receive a portion of this vital grant from the EPA,” said Mayor George McGill. “This recognition underscores our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. These initiatives will not only improve the quality of life for our residents but also have a positive impact on our environment, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for the city of Fort Smith and the Natural State.”

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