The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District is hoping to reduce some of the emissions that plague the Valley air basin by offering grants to retrofit school buses.

The Air District is seeking applications for a new grants program that provides up to $20,000 apiece for emission-reducing retrofits on Valley school buses.

Public school districts, joint powers authorities and private transportation agencies in the eight-county air basin are eligible for the program, which also assists school districts with upcoming compliance requirements of California’s Truck and Bus Regulation.

“Public health protection is our number one priority, and this funding is an important factor in cleaning up our air and protecting the health of our youngest residents and their communities,” said Samir Sheikh, the District’s grants program director.

The new School Bus Incentives Program is fully funded by the Air District. Previously, the District awarded $18 million through a state program that retrofitted 975 school buses.

“This new program answers a real economic need of school districts in the Valley,” said Sheikh.

Funding will provide up to $20,000 to purchase an ARB Certified Level 3+ retrofit device and other eligible expenses. Schools may receive funding for multiple buses. Eligible buses must be: Equipped with a 1987 or newer model year engine; diesel fueled; and greater than 14,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.

 Applications will be taken through June 7.

For more information on the application process, contact the Air District’s grants program at 559-230-5800 or visit http://www.valleyair.org/Grant_Programs/GrantPrograms.htm.