U.S. Senator Kay R. Hagan (D-NC) today announced Cary will receive $1,166,800 for energy efficiency improvements and green job creation.

"This Recovery Act grant will help Cary transition to green infrastructure, which will benefit our entire community," said Hagan. "I will continue working to secure federal dollars for important investments that reduce our dependence on foreign oil and create North Carolina jobs."

"The Town of Cary is committed to preserving and protecting our environment," said Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. "This is reflected in our Statement of Values and stands as one of the Town Council's major focus areas. Our successes thus far are demonstrated in state and national awards and recognition, and this grant funding provides the opportunity to immediately further our efforts to be good stewards of our finite natural resources through energy efficiency and conservation projects."

The grant is being allocated through Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) awards made available by the Department of Energy. Cary will use the funds to hire a town sustainability manager, conduct energy efficiency audits of buildings and make upgrades, purchase alternative fuel vehicles, and begin an LED street light pilot project.

The EECBG Program is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Senator Hagan worked with her colleagues to craft the Recovery Act to create jobs and jumpstart the economy.