Provo mayor spotlights city’s sustainability projects
Provo’s sustainability projects have a stated purpose of keeping the city moving forward and continually improving the city for the next generation and beyond.
In her most recent newsletter, Mayor Michelle Kaufusi highlighted some of those sustainable projects and is inviting residents to become involved.
“Provo City does not promote sustainability only to look good–we do it because it makes sense, both financially and morally,” Kaufusi wrote. “The more energy, water, and land we conserve, the more money we save our taxpayers. The more natural resources we save, the better life will be for our children. It’s our duty as public servants to do what’s right for our city and set an example. Sustainable living is a moral duty.”
Kaufusi shared several ways in which the city is building on its sustainability.
Tree giveaway program
NatureShade is a program provided by Provo City Power through which eligible residential utility customers can apply for a free shade tree to plant on their property in Provo. When planted properly and at full growth, the trees can cast enough shade to keep energy costs down in the home, according to program details. The project will begin in the late spring.
In addition to potential energy savings, other purported long-term benefits of shade trees include carbon sequestration and beautification of area homes and neighborhoods.
Gas appliance exchange and rebate
Residents who exchange their old gas-powered yard equipment for new electric or battery-powered equipment can get some money back for their air quality-improvement efforts through the GreenXchange program. Provo City Power offers rebates to help offset costs.
The city provides $300 for lawnmowers and snow blowers and $50 for string trimmers and leaf blowers.
EV stations
Provo City has installed electric vehicle charging stations at many facilities. There is one each at Provo City Hall, Provo Recreation Center and the Provo City Library at Academy Square.
Recycling program
“Provo has a fantastic weekly curbside recycling program for those who want to have the convenience of simply dropping recyclables into a blue can and rolling it out to the curb,” Kaufusi wrote. “What could be more simple while doing your part to make a difference in keeping a friendly environment for your families? Not to mention, it is less expensive to recycle than it is to have extra black cans.”
Composting
Yard waste recycling can help keep heavy grass clippings, weeds and yard trimmings out of the landfill and, according to the Provo City website, saves the city from having to pay more in tipping fees at the transfer station.
Residents are charged $6 per month from March through November for a green yard waste can, with the fee dropped during winter months from December through February.
Large loads of yard waste can be disposed of at the compost station, located at 1625 S. Industrial Parkway, where compost is also sold.
Water conservation
The Provo City Water Supply Long Term Sustainability project received $50 million in federal funding for an aquifer storage recharge system designed to help maintain adequate supplies of clean drinking water.
“Provo City is being waterwise–in the short term, by encouraging citizen water conservation; and in the long term, by emphasizing ground water storage, recycling, re-use, and other sustainable methods that reduce demand for new water, limit evaporation loses, protect water quality, and align with natural recharge,” Kaufusi wrote in her newsletter.
“Provo’s forward-looking approach to water management is being noticed nationally, as evidenced by the financial support Provo has received from FEMA,” she added. “We are honored to receive the maximum grant funding–and consider it to be FEMA’s confidence in our water management efforts, meeting not only our community’s future needs, but those of the surrounding region.”
Active transport infrastructure
Provo City’s approach to streets, Kaufusi notes in her newsletter, is rooted in recognition of “the necessity of developing a safe, reliable, efficient, and integrated multi-modal transportation network that provides mobility and access for walking and riding.”
“Transportation infrastructure,” she continues, “should accommodate all street users, reduce negative environmental impacts, promote healthy living, and advance the well-being of residents and commuters.”
Trails
In her newsletter post, Kaufusi said one of her favorite things to do is explore the city by walking and running on local trails.
“The landscape here is gorgeous, surrounded by the mountains that are already starting to turn beautiful shades of yellow, orange, and red. I feel so blessed to live in a city with so many walks that are easily accessible.”
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- Provo City’s tree giveaway project is run through the Provo Power Department each year in late spring and early summer.
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- Provo Mayor Michelle Kaufusi speaks Monday, Aug. 29, 2022, at a FEMA press conference where Provo was awarded $50 million for an aquifer project.
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- In this undated photo, Provo residents check out tree options at the annual tree giveaway.
