The US Department of Energy has just awarded a $1.8 million grant to CuseCar to develop alternative fuels stations at a historic landmark in Syracuse and other sites around the region. A 60,000 sq. ft. former rail depot, an iconic site along I-690, is being redeveloped as part of a $3.7 million project by CuseCar, a non-profit car sharing organization that is utilizing alternative fuels.
There are only 26 car sharing programs in the country, and CuseCar is at the leading edge of a smart transportation movement. The creation of Synapse Partners, an environmental risk management company, CuseCar was launched in 2008.
The grant to CuseCar comes through the federal stimulus package. In addition to the federal grant, Synapse is utilizing a $825,000 state grant to help revitalize the historic structure, which is on the National Register. National Grid and GM are working with Synapse Partners on the development of alternative fuel stations for electric hybrid and hydrogen vehicles. Cuse Car is looking to install fueling stations throughout the county, powered by solar panels to be installed at the historic depot site. Plans also call for the installation of a compressed natural gas station, as well as a hydrogen fueling station in partnership with GM.
For more info: www.cusecar.org
