Durham County Commissioners approved a $1.5 million federal grant to retrofit homes for energy efficiency and emissions reduction, marking the nation's largest award from the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Burden and Emissions Reduction Program. The three-year initiative will retrofit at least 200 homes across Durham, Orange, and Granville counties at no cost to income-qualified homeowners, with the majority of homes located in Durham due to its higher population and more designated disadvantaged neighborhoods. The program will prioritize Justice40 communities and includes hiring neighborhood ambassadors for outreach and DIY workshops, with protections for renters against rent increases or displacement. Work is expected to begin in the first half of 2025 once the federal contract is finalized.
Commissioners also approved a $20.2 million sewer infrastructure project for the Chin Page Road Lift Station, which will handle 10.2 million gallons per day to support growth in the Research Triangle Park area. The project will be funded through a $19.3 million loan from the N.C. Division of Water Infrastructure at 1.16% interest and $1.875 million from the sewer utility fund, with an expected 2.5-year construction timeline. Commissioner Howton raised concerns about Durham County bearing infrastructure costs for private economic development, suggesting that future tax incentive recipients contribute to a dedicated infrastructure fund. Economic Development Director Andy Miracle indicated the board could explore this policy approach going forward.
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