Federal Independent Agencies
Here's a look at documents from federal independent agencies
Featured Stories
IDB, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden to Unlock $800 Million for Amazonia and Central America
WASHINGTON, Nov. 8 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden to Unlock $800 Million for Amazonia and Central America
BELEM, Brazil -- The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Impact Fund Denmark, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad), and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) signed a letter of intent today toward establishing a new guarantee. This new partnership is expected to result in approximately $800 million in additional IDB lending capacity for clean-energy projects
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 8 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden to Unlock $800 Million for Amazonia and Central America
BELEM, Brazil -- The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Impact Fund Denmark, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad), and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) signed a letter of intent today toward establishing a new guarantee. This new partnership is expected to result in approximately $800 million in additional IDB lending capacity for clean-energy projectsunder the Amazonia Forever and America en el Centro regional programs.
This additional capacity will enable the IDB to scale investments across the Amazon region and Central America by supporting projects that expand energy access, modernize transmission and distribution networks, promote clean electricity systems, advance sustainable transport, scale clean cooking solutions, increase energy-storage capacity, and strengthen emerging clean technology sectors.
The IDB has a strong track record of risk-transfer guarantees. In 2021, a $100 million transaction with Sida unlocked funding for projects focused on poverty alleviation, climate resilience, and support women in Bolivia, Colombia, and Guatemala, followed in 2024 by a second $250 million guarantee with Sida that unlocked $469 million in additional lending for the Amazon region under Amazonia Forever.
The proposed new guarantee - now with Impact Fund Denmark, Norad, and Sida - is expected to further bolster the IDB's regional programs, deepen collaboration with Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, and advance the IDB Group's Institutional Strategy by mobilizing additional resources through balance-sheet optimization and innovative risk-sharing with partners.
"We are glad to work closely with Sida, Impact Fund Denmark, and Norad towards a new credit-substitution guarantee - our third with Sida and our first with Impact Fund Denmark and Norad. Through innovative financing, we are facilitating the mobilization of financial resources to strengthen energy security, resilience, and inclusive growth in Amazonia and Central America," said IDB Group President Ilan Goldfajn.
"Guarantees are powerful catalysts for climate action. By partnering with the IDB, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden are unlocking approximately 800 million dollars for clean energy and sustainable development in the Amazon region. This collaboration shows how innovative financial risk-sharing models can accelerate green investments where they matter most--protecting biodiversity and supporting communities for generations to come," said CEO at Impact Fund Denmark Lars Bo Bertram.
"We are proud to announce the first guarantee under the Norwegian Sovereign Guarantee Scheme, and it is especially rewarding to do so together with Sweden and Denmark. The Amazon region - where Norway has been the most important partner for rainforest conservation during the last 15 years - is extremely energy-poor. This guarantee will address that by enabling close to $800 million in renewable investments, with significant positive effects for the people, environment, and economic development," said Jonas Gahr Store, Prime Minister of Norway.
"This partnership with the IDB demonstrates how innovative financial instruments can multiply development impact. By combining Sweden's, Norway's, and Denmark's guarantee mechanisms, we are helping to unlock substantial new lending capacity for sustainable investments in the Amazon, aligning financing with both climate and development goals," said Assistant Director General and Head of the Department for Trade, the Private Sector, and Financial Instruments at Sida, Kjell Forsberg.
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The IDB Group at COP30
The IDB Group is hosting more than 80 events at COP30 to showcase solutions for closing gaps in financing for resilient development through partnerships, innovation, and a focus on measurable impact in Latin America and the Caribbean. Journalists on site are invited to visit our venues, with no registration required: IDB Group Pavilion in the Blue Zone, IDB Group Pavilion in the Green Zone, and the AMAZONIA SEMPRE Station at the Goeldi Museum. Follow our COP30 page for all news and event schedules.
The IDB Group is acting as a bridge at the conference - connecting governments and investors, the public and private sectors, people and communities - to mobilize at least $6 billion in announcements to help close gaps in financing and support national priorities.
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About Amazonia Forever
Amazonia Forever is the IDB Group's regional coordination program that aims to protect biodiversity and accelerate sustainable development through three lines of action: expanding innovative financing, boosting knowledge exchange, and facilitating regional coordination among the eight countries that the Amazon encompasses. During COP30, it will host the AMAZONIA SEMPRE Station at the Goeldi Museum from November 8 to 21. See the full program here: www.bit.ly/COP30AMAZONIASEMPRE
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About America en el Centro
America en el Centro is a regional development program designed as an umbrella to address common and cross-border challenges faced by countries in Central America, Panama and the Dominican Republic (CAPDR). The initiative seeks to unlock the region's potential, promote sustainable development, and foster resilience.
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About the IDB
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a member of the IDB Group, is devoted to improving lives across Latin America and the Caribbean. Founded in 1959, the Bank works with the region's public sector to design and enable impactful, innovative solutions for sustainable and inclusive development. Leveraging financing, technical expertise, and knowledge, it promotes growth and well-being in 26 countries. Visit our website: www.iadb.org/en.
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Original text here: https://www.iadb.org/en/news/idb-denmark-norway-and-sweden-unlock-800-million-amazonia-and-central-america
Uruguay to Strengthen Public Security With IDB Support of $200 Million
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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Uruguay to Strengthen Public Security with IDB Support of $200 Million
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Board of Executive Directors approved a Conditional Credit Line for Investment Projects (CCLIP) of up to $200 million to support the strengthening of public security and justice in Uruguay.
As part of this credit line, the Board approved an initial individual loan of $25 million for the program "More Security I: Advancing Key Areas of Public Security Management." The program aims to
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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Uruguay to Strengthen Public Security with IDB Support of $200 Million
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Board of Executive Directors approved a Conditional Credit Line for Investment Projects (CCLIP) of up to $200 million to support the strengthening of public security and justice in Uruguay.
As part of this credit line, the Board approved an initial individual loan of $25 million for the program "More Security I: Advancing Key Areas of Public Security Management." The program aims toimprove the effectiveness of the prison system, strengthen criminal investigations, and modernize police training.
Uruguay is facing growing challenges related to organized crime, including multiple issues in its prison system, the need to improve criminal investigations, and the imperative to prepare the police force for future challenges.
To address these, the program will enhance prison management through the construction and equipping of a new Assessment and Referral Center (CED) in the interior of the country, and the implementation of new technologies and protocols to strengthen prison security. It will also promote the modernization of the National Police, incorporating scientific and technological equipment to improve criminal investigations, including cybercrime. A new competency-based police training model will be developed, featuring specialized programs in investigation, leadership, and criminal analysis, all structured within a credit-based university career path.
The project aims to improve safety conditions for inmates and working conditions for prison staff; enhance police capacity to identify perpetrators of homicides and other crimes; and strengthen the institutional capacity of the police to become more effective public servants. This operation is part of the IDB's regional Alliance for Security, Justice, and Development, which promotes evidence-based solutions to strengthen security and justice institutions in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The Ministry of the Interior will be the executing agency for the program. The financing is provided under a Specific Investment Loan, with a repayment term of 24.5 years, a six-year grace period, and a five-year disbursement period.
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About the IDB
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a member of the IDB Group, is devoted to improving lives across Latin America and the Caribbean. Founded in 1959, the Bank works with the region's public sector to design and enable impactful, innovative solutions for sustainable and inclusive development. Leveraging financing, technical expertise, and knowledge, it promotes growth and well-being in 26 countries. Visit our website: https://www.iadb.org/en.
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Original text here: https://www.iadb.org/en/news/uruguay-strengthen-public-security-idb-support-200-million
TVA Accelerates American Energy Dominance in FY25 With Nuclear and Grid Expansion
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The Tennessee Valley Authority issued the following news release:
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TVA Accelerates American Energy Dominance in FY25 with Nuclear and Grid Expansion
Release Summary
* TVA leads the U.S. in advanced nuclear development with major milestones that include the first Gen IV nuclear power purchase agreement and support for a commercial fusion plant.
* TVA added new generation capacity, maintained strong performance across its gas, hydro, and coal fleets, and is planning to build over 6,200 megawatts with over 3,500 megawatts of new power already under construction, enough
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The Tennessee Valley Authority issued the following news release:
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TVA Accelerates American Energy Dominance in FY25 with Nuclear and Grid Expansion
Release Summary
* TVA leads the U.S. in advanced nuclear development with major milestones that include the first Gen IV nuclear power purchase agreement and support for a commercial fusion plant.
* TVA added new generation capacity, maintained strong performance across its gas, hydro, and coal fleets, and is planning to build over 6,200 megawatts with over 3,500 megawatts of new power already under construction, enoughfor 2 million homes.
* TVA helped attract over $6.6 billion in investment and expects to create over 9,000 new jobs, supported energy efficiency upgrades for over 200,000 residents, and joined Hurricane Helene environmental restoration efforts, all while working to reduce costs through its Enterprise Transformation Program.
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KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- The Tennessee Valley Authority is accelerating America's energy dominance through investments in advanced nuclear, grid modernization, and strategic partnerships to position the Tennessee Valley, and the nation, to lead the global energy race. At its November meeting, the TVA Board of Directors received updates on the agency's progress, recognized the strong performance and dedication of employees, and reaffirmed its commitment to delivering affordable, reliable, and innovative American energy solutions to meet rising demand, fuel economic growth, and power next-generation infrastructure of the AI era.
"American energy dominance is measured in more than megawatts; it's measured in the strength and ingenuity of our people," said Don Moul, TVA President and CEO. "In FY25, that strength helped us transform TVA to keep the power grid strong, grow the economy, and help our communities thrive. Together with our partners, we're modernizing the power grid, expanding American energy, and powering the technologies that will create jobs and define the next century."
Year of Fast Progress, Strong Leadership
In FY25, TVA rapidly advanced its role as a national leader in energy innovation, a hub for next-generation nuclear technology, and a key driver of regional economic growth. During the Board meeting, Moul shared the year's successes that reflect the agency's momentum:
* New Nuclear Innovation: TVA is the only utility with a construction permit application accepted by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the BWRX-300 SMR technology, demonstrating the agency's national leadership in small modular reactor development. In addition, TVA is the first U.S. utility to sign a power purchase agreement for electricity from an advanced Gen IV nuclear reactor - Kairos Power's Hermes 2. TVA also signed a collaboration agreement with ENTRA1 to explore the development of up to 6 gigawatts of new nuclear power generation to advance the nation's energy security and maintain America's nuclear leadership.
* Fusion Energy Development: With support from Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, TVA and Type One Energy signed a letter of intent to bring the nation's first commercial stellarator fusion power plant to the Tennessee Valley. TVA's highly skilled workforce will help manufacture components for the prototype fusion machine at TVA's Bull Run site.
* Meeting Power Demand: TVA's gas, hydro, and coal generation fleet delivered strong reliability performance this year, with 389 billion cubic feet of natural gas and 14 million tons of coal supplied. This fuel mix generated enough electricity to power an estimated 7.2 million homes, underscoring the fleet's critical role in meeting energy demands. To continue to meet record-breaking power demand, like in January, TVA completed 530 megawatts of new generation at its New Johnsonville natural gas plant and has more than 3,500 megawatts currently under construction -- enough to power over two million homes. TVA plans to build more than 6,200 megawatts of new generation to support industrial growth, economic development and energy security. TVA is working closely with communities to identify optimal locations for new energy assets.
* Economic Development: TVA, with its partners, helped attract over $6.6 billion in projected capital investment to the region that is expected to create more than 9,000 jobs while expecting to retain about 43,250 jobs - earning Site Selection Magazine's recognition for 20-years in a row. Companies include: Barrett firearms, GE Aerospace, Hitachi Energy, Mahle, Oklo and U.S. Space Command. Over the past five years, TVA has helped create over $44 billion in projected capital investment, which is expected to bring more than 81,000 new jobs and retain more than 230,000 jobs.
* Energy Efficiency & Demand Response: In partnership with local power companies and communities, TVA programs enabled energy upgrades to more than 200,000 residents and 98 schools across the Valley. Since October 2023, TVA's energy efficiency programs have delivered almost $750 million in lifetime energy savings for participants.
* Disaster Response & Environmental Stewardship: Following the impact of Hurricane Helene, TVA joined a year-long cleanup effort in partnership with FEMA, TEMA, and TDEC to restore Douglas Lake. This initiative reinforced TVA's commitment to community resilience and earned the Outstanding Watershed Management Project Award from the Clean Water Professionals of Kentucky and Tennessee.
* Enterprise Transformation Program (ETP): TVA met its FY25 cost optimization reduction targets and has plans to meet the targets set for FY26. ETP is designed to enable TVA to deliver at least $500 million of sustainable reductions to planned cost increases in FY26 and beyond to support future fleet investments needed to meet growing demand. TVA's ETP is focused on improving financial health, enhancing asset performance, automating processes, optimizing third-party spend through the supply chain, and making the workforce more efficient.
"At TVA, we're not just building energy infrastructure, we're laying the foundation for America's energy future," said Moul. "We're proving that when we lead with purpose, and partner with vision, there's no limit to what we can achieve."
Board Actions
In other business, the Board:
* Approved FY26 CEO total compensation, which continues to balance recognition of leading TVA's complex operations with the agency's public service mission and remains well below the national median compensation of similar organizations.
* The Board approved the payout for TVA's short-term at-risk compensation for Winning Performance/EAIP, recognizing the continued performance of the team in meeting demanding goals under challenging conditions.
* The Board approved the Long-Term Incentive (LTI) Plan payout percentage based on FY25 scorecard performance.
To learn more about TVA's innovation strategy and partnerships, visit tva.com.
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About TVA
The Tennessee Valley Authority is the nation's largest public power supplier, delivering energy to more than 10 million people across seven southeastern states. TVA has one of the most diverse energy systems - including nuclear, hydro, coal, gas, solar and advanced technologies. TVA is making significant investments in its power system toward new generation and transmission.
TVA is a corporate agency of the United States, receiving no taxpayer funding, deriving virtually all of its revenues from sales of electricity. TVA maintains some of the lowest energy costs and highest reliability in the nation. TVA's residential rates are lower than those paid by 80% of customers of the top 100 U.S. utilities, and its industrial rates are lower than those paid by over 90% of customers of the top 100 U.S. utilities. In addition, TVA provides flood control, navigation, and land management for the Tennessee River system, and assists local power companies and state and local governments with economic development and job creation. Learn more at tva.com.
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Original text here: https://www.tva.com/news-media/releases/tva-accelerates-american-energy-dominance-in-fy25-with-nuclear-and-grid-expansion
IDB Supports Reducing Flood Vulnerability in Metropolitan Area of San Salvador
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Supports Reducing Flood Vulnerability in Metropolitan Area of San Salvador
The Executive Board of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a Conditional Credit Line for Investment Projects (CCLIP) of up to $500 million, aimed at reducing the vulnerability of El Salvador's population to flooding.
As part of this credit line, the Board also approved an initial individual loan of $150 million to finance a project focused on the Metropolitan Area of San Salvador (AMSS).
The AMSS
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Supports Reducing Flood Vulnerability in Metropolitan Area of San Salvador
The Executive Board of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a Conditional Credit Line for Investment Projects (CCLIP) of up to $500 million, aimed at reducing the vulnerability of El Salvador's population to flooding.
As part of this credit line, the Board also approved an initial individual loan of $150 million to finance a project focused on the Metropolitan Area of San Salvador (AMSS).
The AMSSpopulation faces high vulnerability to increasingly frequent and intense flood events that cause loss of life, significant economic damage, and disruptions to daily activities. The project financed by the first loan will address the main causes of this vulnerability, including gaps in access to adequate urban drainage services, challenges in planning and strengthening technical capacities for efficient management, the need to improve early-warning systems, and limitations in the proper disposal of solid waste within drainage systems.
The program will fund the development and maintenance of urban drainage infrastructure, including the construction of detention ponds and the rehabilitation and operation of sustainable urban drainage systems. It will also support the rehabilitation of vaults designed to store large volumes of rainwater during intense storms and release it in a controlled manner, as well as the recovery and strengthening of culverts.
This project will directly benefit about 5,100 households (15,200 people) and approximately 700 establishments (businesses, public institutions), which will have access to adequate urban drainage.
Additionally, 100% of the AMSS population will benefit from an improved early warning system and awareness campaigns. Likewise, 70% of the personnel participating in the planned workshops will obtain certifications in urban drainage management and early warning systems.
The project also includes institutional strengthening of the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation and improving the effectiveness of the flood early warning system.
The first individual loan of $150 million has a repayment term of 23 years, a grace period of 7.5 years, and an interest rate based on SOFR
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About the IDB
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a member of the IDB Group, is devoted to improving lives across Latin America and the Caribbean. Founded in 1959, the Bank works with the region's public sector to design and enable impactful, innovative solutions for sustainable and inclusive development. Leveraging financing, technical expertise, and knowledge, it promotes growth and well-being in 26 countries. Visit our website: www.iadb.org
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Original text here: https://www.iadb.org/en/news/idb-supports-reducing-flood-vulnerability-metropolitan-area-san-salvador
IDB Launches Scholarships for Technology and Innovation Program in Korea
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Launches Scholarships for Technology and Innovation Program in Korea
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is now accepting applications for the Korea-LAC Tech Corps Program, a scholarship initiative funded by the Knowledge Partnership Korea Fund for Technology and Innovation.
This program offers up to 23 fully funded scholarships to mid-level public sector professionals from Latin America and the Caribbean who are eager to enhance their leadership and management skills through advanced
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Launches Scholarships for Technology and Innovation Program in Korea
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is now accepting applications for the Korea-LAC Tech Corps Program, a scholarship initiative funded by the Knowledge Partnership Korea Fund for Technology and Innovation.
This program offers up to 23 fully funded scholarships to mid-level public sector professionals from Latin America and the Caribbean who are eager to enhance their leadership and management skills through advancedtechnological innovation tools.
Over an 18-month period in Korea, selected participants will pursue a Master of Public Management (MPM) and an MBA in Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology Business at Ajou University, one of Korea's premier academic institutions. The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, health insurance, and other program-related costs.
Eligible applicants must have at least five years of experience in public service and currently work in public institutions in Latin America or the Caribbean. The program is designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership through the strategic use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).
The Korea-LAC Tech Corps Program is part of the IDB's efforts, through its Competitiveness, Technology and Innovation Division (CTI), to strengthen institutional capacities in the region's public sector. The initiative promotes knowledge exchange with Korea -- a global benchmark in digital transformation -- and promotes the adoption of innovation-driven management practices across public institutions.
Application deadline: December 19, 2025
More information and eligibility requirements: https://korealactechcorps.com
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About the IDB
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a member of the IDB Group, is devoted to improving lives across Latin America and the Caribbean. Founded in 1959, the Bank works with the region's public sector to design and enable impactful, innovative solutions for sustainable and inclusive development. Leveraging financing, technical expertise, and knowledge, it promotes growth and well-being in 26 countries. Visit our website:
https://www.iadb.org/en.
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Original text here: https://www.iadb.org/en/news/idb-launches-scholarships-technology-and-innovation-program-korea
ICYMI: Trump EPA Finalizes Approval of North Dakota's Coal Combustion Residuals Permit Program, Advances Cooperative Federalism
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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ICYMI: Trump EPA Finalizes Approval of North Dakota's Coal Combustion Residuals Permit Program, Advances Cooperative Federalism
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WASHINGTON - On Wednesday, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, alongside North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong at the North Dakota state Capitol, approved North Dakota's coal combustion residuals (CCR) program application. This program allows the state, rather than the federal government, to permit CCR disposal in surface impoundments
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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ICYMI: Trump EPA Finalizes Approval of North Dakota's Coal Combustion Residuals Permit Program, Advances Cooperative Federalism
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WASHINGTON - On Wednesday, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, alongside North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong at the North Dakota state Capitol, approved North Dakota's coal combustion residuals (CCR) program application. This program allows the state, rather than the federal government, to permit CCR disposal in surface impoundmentsand landfills, and ensures EPA's commitment to advancing cooperative federalism with state, local and Tribal partners. EPA will continue working with these partners to prioritize timely action and empower those with local expertise to oversee more effective CCR disposal operations.
Read coverage below on EPA's action to advance cooperative federalism.
North Dakota Monitor: EPA puts coal waste regulation into North Dakota's hands Exit EPA's website
"... Zeldin said the move helps cut red tape and puts more decision-making in the hands of the state, where it belongs... 'States should be more in charge of their own destiny,' Zeldin said."
KX News: Gov. Armstrong and EPA administrator Lee Zeldin finalize agreement to implement coal program Exit EPA's website
"... The Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) Permit Program intends to make the recycling of coal ash safer and more efficient, while helping to reduce costs for coal producers. The program will allow the state, rather than the federal government, to permit CCR disposal."
Inside EPA: EPA Approves North Dakota's CCR Program, Boosting Push For Other States Exit EPA's website
"... Zeldin also responded to a question regarding EPA's future involvement in North Dakota's CCR permitting, saying that the agency will 'be a very close and trusted partner with the state,' but that 'what North Dakota is gaining primacy over, as far as that regulatory oversight, is substantial.'"
Bismarck Tribune: EPA gives North Dakota authority over coal waste; environmental groups may challenge Exit EPA's website
"Federal officials are handing off authority of many coal waste regulations to a North Dakota state agency. The move has been long sought by the state..."
WDAY Radio: EPA approves North Dakota's coal combustion residuals program Exit EPA's website
"... 'By entrusting state experts with the authority to oversee their own resources, we are reinforcing our commitment to both cooperative federalism and permitting reform,' EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said."
American Ag Network: Fedorchak joins EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and Governor Kelly Armstrong for approval of North Dakota Coal Combustion Residuals Permit Program Exit EPA's website
"... 'EPA is proud to support North Dakota's leadership and local expertise in managing its own coal combustion residuals program responsibly,' said EPA Regional Administrator Cyrus Western. 'This approval reflects that practical, state-driven solutions can deliver both environmental results and American energy opportunity.'"
Lignite Energy Council: Lignite Energy Council Applauds EPA Approval of North Dakota's Coal Combustion Residuals Program Exit EPA's website
"... Administrator Zeldin's decision to make this announcement in North Dakota highlights the importance of coal country to the nation's energy future. His visit underscores the state's record of balancing strong environmental performance with the reliable, affordable energy that keeps homes, businesses, and industries powered."
WZFG The Flag: EPA approves North Dakota's coal combustion residuals program Exit EPA's website
"... 'North Dakota has regulated coal combustion residuals effectively for more than 40 years, protecting both the environment and public health, and we appreciate the EPA and Administrator Zeldin for recognizing the strength and responsibility of our state-led approach,' North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong said."
E&E News: EPA hands North Dakota oversight of coal ash dumps Exit EPA's website
"...The approval is the latest sign of EPA blazing forward with Trump administration priorities during the government shutdown..."
KFYR TV (VIDEO): EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin in Bismarck to approve of ND authority to regulate coal ash waste Exit EPA's website
"EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin came from Washington to make the announcement with Governor Armstrong in Bismarck... Zeldin says North Dakota's department of environmental quality can take over [the coal combustion residuals program]..."
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/icymi-trump-epa-finalizes-approval-north-dakotas-coal-combustion-residuals-permit
Amtrak Celebrates Upgrades at Wisconsin Stations
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- Amtrak (National Railroad Passenger Corp.) issued the following news:
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Amtrak Celebrates Upgrades at Wisconsin Stations
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Customers benefit from $11 million in federal investments
COLUMBUS and TOMAH, Wisc. - Amtrak passengers have a more accessible experience at two Wisconsin stations following about $11 million in upgrades celebrated Wednesday. The Amtrak Empire Builder and Borealis trains each stop twice daily at the Columbus and Tomah stations.
"Making stations accessible to all customers is a priority we're actively pursuing with construction, renovation,
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- Amtrak (National Railroad Passenger Corp.) issued the following news:
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Amtrak Celebrates Upgrades at Wisconsin Stations
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Customers benefit from $11 million in federal investments
COLUMBUS and TOMAH, Wisc. - Amtrak passengers have a more accessible experience at two Wisconsin stations following about $11 million in upgrades celebrated Wednesday. The Amtrak Empire Builder and Borealis trains each stop twice daily at the Columbus and Tomah stations.
"Making stations accessible to all customers is a priority we're actively pursuing with construction, renovation,repair and upgrade projects at stations across our National Network," said Amtrak Vice President of Accessibility Dr. David Handera. "We want all of our stations to provide a welcoming environment for every passenger."
Handera and civic leaders held ribbon-cutting celebrations today in both cities and promoted improvements nationwide to enhance the passenger experience. Nineteen stations were brought into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act in the 12 months ending Sept. 30 and another 50 stations are targeted for completion in the next year at a forecasted investment of $310 million.
Columbus (CBS): $6.3 million
* The Columbus station sits three blocks northeast of downtown and it was built in 1906 by the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway (Milwaukee Road, now the CPKC Railway). Columbus now has two new 350-foot-long concrete platforms, accessible paths of travel to and from the station building, and designated parking area. With the construction of sloped accessible walkways, railings, energy efficient LED light fixtures, detectable warning systems, and new signage throughout, these improvements focus on supporting Amtrak's goals to enhance the customer experience and bring greater integrated and comprehensive accessibility to stations across the country.
* The designer of record for the project is HDR, an internationally recognized architecture and engineering firm that specializes in infrastructure and transportation. Enfield Enterprises, Inc. provided General Contractor services for the project. Wisconsin subcontractors included Seven Hills Striping and White Cap (Madison), Brozek and O'Brion Excavating (Fall River), Empower Electric and Zenith Tech (Waukesha), Maple Leaf Inc. (Verona), and Wolf Paving Co. (Hartland).
Tomah (TOH): $5 million
* The Tomah station was built in 1903 by the Milwaukee Road and it is individually eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. Tomah now has a 330-foot-long heated concrete boarding platform, accessible paths of travel to and from the station building, and designated parking area. Sloped walkways, railings, energy efficient LED light fixtures, detectable warning systems, and new signage have been installed, along with upgrades to the waiting room air conditioning and public utility connections.
* The designer of record for the project is Michael Baker International, an internationally recognized architecture and engineering firm that specializes in infrastructure and transportation. George Allen Construction provided General Contractor services for the project. Wisconsin subcontractors included Fowler & Hammer (La Crosse), Badger State, Inc. and Real Land Surveying (Eau Claire), Gerke Excavating (Tomah), and Pederson Electric (Coon Valley).
Both stations have had passenger train service since the 1850s. Closer to Milwaukee, Amtrak trains use part of the Milwaukee & Mississippi Railroad, which was the first railroad in Wisconsin and which started operation in 175 years ago this month.
Amtrak has invested more than $1 billion since 2011 in accessibility upgrades and improvement projects at 147 stations across the national network to ensure a safe, efficient, and comfortable travel experience. This program is advancing 142 station designs and 70 station construction projects as part of the ongoing Amtrak commitment to providing accessibility at 100% of stations by 2029.
"WisDOT is proud to support the work Amtrak has done to provide accessible and functional access at the Tomah and Columbus stations," Wisconsin Department of Transportation Secretary Kristina Boardman said. "Connecting rural and small communities is an incredible benefit of the Borealis and Empire Builder passenger rail services and we're proud to be able to extend these connections and opportunities to all of Wisconsin's residents and tourists alike."
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Original text here: https://media.amtrak.com/2025/11/amtrak-celebrates-upgrades-at-wisconsin-stations/
