MoDOT trucks to be retrofitted to cut emissions

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The Missouri Department of Transportation is retrofitting some of its trucks to reduce diesel pollution in urban areas.

Engines will be upgraded in 17 dump trucks, while five trucks will be replaced with new, less polluting models. Other vehicles will be equipped with emission-control devices or idle-reduction technology.

The work will be funded with a $726,000 grant received by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. State officials hope the program will cut MoDOT truck emissions in St. Louis, Kansas City and Springfield by 288 tons per year.