Medford Wins $250,000 Grant

MEDFORD, MA - Medford has received a Green Communities Grant for $250,000.

The grant was awarded by the Massachusetts Department of Energy and Environmental Affairs and is the maximum amount available to a single municipality, according to a release. In 2010, Medford received recognition as a Green Community through the state’s program and this grant will be the city’s fourth Green Communities Grant, a release said. In addition, it will also be the third grant received through the competitive grant opportunities. According to a statement from the mayor's office, this grant will be dedicated primarily to:

• LED lighting projects at Medford’s Schools including a complete upgrade of the interior lights at the Curtis Tufts High School
• New cafeteria lights at the Roberts, Columbus & Brooks Elementary Schools
• New hall & stairway lighting at the McGlynn and Andrews Schools
• Exterior lighting at the Brooks and Roberts Elementary Schools.

All interior lighting upgrades will have automatic daylight sensing and many will be equipped with occupancy sensors. Additionally, the grant will fund the majority of the cost to upgrade the Medford Public Library lights to LED, also with daylight sensors as well. This new project will save the city an estimate of over 300,000 kWh annually, almost $50,000 per year in electricity, according to a release.
“I am thrilled that the City of Medford has continued its legacy of receiving Green Communities Grants. I am looking forward to the lighting improvements in our library and schools,. Not only will the energy savings have a positive impact on future budgets, but it will also have an even greater impact upon our environment,” said Mayor Stephanie M. Burke in a statement.