Sustainability awards are earned in Montco

Cheltenham, Lower Merion, and Upper Merion Townships received platinum-level sustainability awards last week from the Greater Valley Forge Transportation Management Association.

The awards recognize companies and agencies that promote sustainable alternatives for employees and residents. The association said 45 entities earned awards this year, a 36 percent increase over 2014.

Cheltenham has replaced its fleet with hybrid vehicles, installed bike racks at government facilities, and participated with other agencies in a bike challenge and air-quality initiative. The township has gone up a level each year, from bronze to silver to gold and now to platinum.

Upper Merion has been at platinum level since 2012, with a free shuttle for senior citizens, a robust recycling program, showers for employees who bike to work, and electric-vehicle charging stations.

The association is based in King of Prussia, and its board of directors includes Dave Kraynik, the township manager of Upper Merion, formerly of Cheltenham.

Other platinum-level government agencies include SEPTA and Montgomery County Community College. Pottstown, Limerick, and Whitpain received bronze-level awards this year.

- Jessica Parks