Committee told Farmers Branch secured $750,000 in transportation development credits; active transportation plan advances

City staff presented a biannual sustainability update on Oct. 11, outlining completed field work on an active transportation plan, upcoming consultant deliverables, and several program updates.

Staff reported the city was awarded $750,000 in transportation development credits that can be used as local match for federal transportation and trail grants. The committee was told the funds are expected to support trails, transportation projects and related local match needs.

The update covered program metrics: the toilet rebate program processed 50 applications and replaced 61 toilets to date; the tree giveaway registrations filled quickly; and the city’s public EV charging capacity has increased (staff reported the count rose from seven public ports to nine). Staff also said one EV charger was installed at city hall and two chargers were scheduled for the dog‑park area.

“ We were awarded a $750,000 in transportation development credits,” staff said during the presentation (staff presenter described recent awards and program performance).

Staff noted the composting survey has been slower than anticipated and that the department is working to resolve issues. They also announced public events: a landfill open house run by the waste contractor (Oct. 21, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.), a Dallas College sustainability summit Nov. 1 at Northlake campus, and reminders about the committee’s tree distribution and volunteer opportunities.

Next steps: staff will meet with the active transportation consultant for mapping and recommendations, continue promotion of water‑conservation rebates, proceed with remaining EV charger installations and work to finalize composting survey rollout. The committee’s next meeting is Nov. 8.