It was as I was learning about Buffalo Green Project's 'Skyline Fence' earlier today, that I also discovered that the group was involved with promoting alternative energy transportation. This past year we've seen electric charging stations installed at the Medical Campus and the launch of Buffalo Motor Works on the city's West Side. While these initiatives are exciting to see, it is just as important that the alternative energy conversation (as it pertains to transportation) is ongoing and is open to all interested parties. After all, the more people and organizations that are allowed to enter into the conversation, the more ideas and resources will ultimately be on the table.
View image
That's why the formation of the Buffalo Alternative Energy Car Club is so important. "This organization is something we're just getting rolling," said Mike Tyrpak. "We looked around at one of the (micropark) cleanup days of Buffalo Green Projects and noticed an electric car and two diesel cars including one powered off of used fryer oil (outnumbering the traditional gas cars) and said, "Hey, we should make this 'a thing'. The club itself is described as 'A car club in Buffalo dedicated to alternative energy vehicles and other cool cars. Including electric, diesel, ethanol, hybrid, hydrogen & natural gas.' Our goal for 2013 is to hold monthly meetings in the parking lot of a local restaurant, similar to the classic car meetings held at Pautler's and other places. Right now we're looking for more than the handful of people we already have as Buffalo Urban Club members, who have alts to fill out the parking lot so to speak!"
If you would like to be a part of the Buffalo Alternative Energy Car Club conversation, consider liking the group on Facebook. From the sounds of it, this group is set to open up a dialogue between those who believe in green energy transportation and those who are affecting change by buying into the lifestyle.
I'm going to throw my hat into the ring. I would like to see a couple of underutilized urban parking lots converted into hybrid and fuel efficient vehicle dealer lots. I guess I'll have to wait for the first meet-up.
This could be the start of the new Triple AAA for the 21st century. Now they just need to hire some fine architects and build a clubhouse!