ATLANTA – With U.S. economic recovery stimulus funds coming down the pipeline, state and local governments have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to upgrade and modernize the nation’s infrastructure, according to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

To encourage investment in projects with the greatest long-term impact, ASHRAE has put together resources to help its members engage decision-makers in identifying and planning projects in their areas. Two resource packages related to recovery funding and energy efficiency in schools are being distributed to ASHRAE’s 124 chapters in the United States, encompassing some 35,000 members.

“The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provides significant funding to federal agencies and state and local governments for the improvement of government-owned infrastructure,” said Bill Harrison, ASHRAE president. “ASHRAE members have the knowledge, experience, and resources to assist state and local governments in determining projects with the greatest value and return on investment.”

An ASHRAE Member’s Guide to Recovery Funding provides information on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, areas of funding, resources available, and tips for engaging state and local decision makers.

Energy Efficiency in Schools, Smart Investments of Recovery Funding provides information targeted to school administrators and state recovery fund managers to encourage investment in energy-efficient schools.

For more information, visit www.ashrae.org/recovery.

Publication date: 05/25/2009