Clean diesel truck program expands in San Joaquin Valley

The cleaner engines should reduce air pollution from freight movement through the Valley, the district says.

More truck owners are now eligible for $60 million in additional Proposition 1B funding. The district is holding free, regional workshops to assist owners in completing their applications. Spanish-language translators will also be available.

“There is a strong demand for help in reducing heavy-duty diesel truck emissions,” says Samir Sheikh, the director of the district’s Strategies and Incentives Program.

The program has also been expanded to allow Class 7 along with Class 8 truck owners to upgrade to newer, less-polluting vehicles.

Applications will be taken March 7 through April 29. Free workshops will be held in each of the three Air District regions to assist applicants:

• In Fresno, Tuesday, April 5, 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.; 1990 E. Gettysburg Ave., in the San Joaquin Room

• In Bakersfield, Wednesday, April 6, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 34946 Flyover Court, in the VTC Room

• In Modesto, Thursday, April 7, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 4800 Enterprise Way, in the Magnolia Room

Applications are available at www.valleyair.org or by calling the Air District’s Strategies and Incentives department at (559) 230-5800. District staff is also available at that number to assist applicants.

Diesel emissions are seen by the district as a significant factor in the Valley’s struggle to meet health-based, clean-air standards. The state’s two major goods-movement corridors – Highway 99 and Interstate 5 – bisect the air basin.