Imagine a future where clean air is no longer a luxury, where local rivers run clear again, and where green transportation becomes a way of life. This vision is becoming reality across New England through an ambitious partnership between the University of Connecticut (UConn) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The newly established Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center (EJ-TCTAC), backed by $10 million in federal funding from the EPA, is providing comprehensive support to communities across Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. The initiative aims to address environmental justice challenges while promoting sustainable development.
At its core, EJ-TCTAC serves as a bridge between underserved communities and federal funding opportunities. Center director Professor Carolyn A. Lin explains that the program offers customized services including needs assessments, funding identification, grant application preparation, and project management—all provided free of charge. These resources are particularly focused on addressing transportation equity and health disparities.
Tangible Results Across New England
By 2025, the program has already supported over 50 environmental justice projects addressing air quality improvement, water resource management, and sustainable transportation. These initiatives are delivering measurable improvements to residents' quality of life.
Case Study: Bridgeport's "Breathing Revolution"
The Bridgeport community, long plagued by air pollution, has seen dramatic improvements through EJ-TCTAC funded projects. Installation of high-efficiency air filters combined with extensive tree planting reduced average PM2.5 concentrations by 20%, leading to fewer respiratory illnesses among residents.
Case Study: Providence Water System Renewal
Providence's aging water infrastructure received critical upgrades through the program, addressing both efficiency and quality concerns. The comprehensive improvements reduced community water consumption by 15% while significantly enhancing water safety.
Case Study: Boston's Green Transportation Initiative
Boston transformed its transportation landscape through EJ-TCTAC supported projects including expanded bike lanes, improved public transit networks, and electric vehicle incentives. These changes increased public transportation usage while reducing private vehicle dependence.
The success of EJ-TCTAC demonstrates that environmental justice can move beyond aspirational goals to deliver concrete improvements. The program's model offers valuable lessons for other regions seeking to balance environmental protection with equitable community development.