Pennsylvania Boosts Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Funding

The Facts -

    • The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation added a new corridor eligible for National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure funding, with proposals due by August 2, 2024.
    • The program's objective is to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure, ensuring no more than 50 miles between stations and their close proximity to exits.
    • Expanding the infrastructure supports cleaner transportation, economic growth, consumer confidence, and aligns with state and federal goals for a sustainable future.

PennDOT Announces New NEVI Funding Corridor

HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has added corridor 70B to the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Round 1B funding. This corridor extends from exit 149 (Breezewood) to exit 168 (Warfordsburg), near the Maryland border. Proposals for funding must be submitted by 5:00 PM EDT on August 2, 2024.

The initial 14 corridors in Round 1B remain open for proposals until July 10, 2024. These corridors opened for proposals on May 13, 2024.

NEVI Funding Goals and Benefits

The PA NEVI program strives to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in the state. Round 1B focuses on filling the remaining gaps in Pennsylvania’s Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs), aiming for no more than 50 miles between charging stations, and stations within one mile of an exit.

The objective is to expand EV charging networks, aligning with both state and federal goals. Funds will be competitively allocated for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of EV charging stations.

Importance of Expanding EV Infrastructure

This initiative holds importance for several reasons:

    1. Environmental Impact: EV infrastructure expansion aids in the transition to cleaner transportation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
    1. Economic Development: Investment in EV infrastructure stimulates economic growth and job creation.
    1. Consumer Confidence: A reliable and widespread EV charging infrastructure alleviates range anxiety, thereby boosting consumer confidence and adoption of electric vehicles.

Implications of Expanding EV Infrastructure

The expansion of EV charging infrastructure aligns with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), enables local involvement in infrastructure development, and is a critical step towards a sustainable transportation system.

Organizations interested in applying for the NEVI Round 1B funding for corridor-group 70B must submit their proposals through the PA Department of Community and Economic Development’s eGrants system by August 2.

Applicants can access detailed guidance and resources on the PennDOT website, which also includes information on federal grant opportunities through the IIJA.

PennDOT's Commitment to a Sustainable Future

PennDOT’s efforts to expand the EV infrastructure mark a proactive approach towards a more sustainable future. With continued development of its EV charging network, Pennsylvania anticipates long-term benefits for its residents, businesses, and the environment.

---
Read More USA Works News