PennDOT seeks public input on EV charging support, funding

As part of the state’s rapid deployment of federal electric vehicle (EV) charging investments, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) invites the public to submit feedback on the agency’s proposal to invest in EV charging infrastructure in communities statewide. The survey can be found on the PennDOT website (found via the following link: bit.ly/4g9KoW1) and will remain open until October 11 at 11:59 p.m.

Recently, PennDOT submitted the 2024 NEVI State Plan Update to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) which outlines progress on the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program and how the agency proposes to begin the program’s “community charging” phase which will bring federal investments to communities across Pennsylvania. The department has requested that FHWA certify it has met requirements for Pennsylvania’s 1,800 miles of Alternate Fuel Corridors (AFC) and can begin investing the state’s remaining $102 million in NEVI funding to develop community charging infrastructure.

“The next step in making EVs a reliable option for PA drivers is local access to charging,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Since these chargers will be in communities, it’s vital that we hear what folks around the state think is important.”

PennDOT has prepared a “Post-AFC Framework” that invests a majority of the remaining NEVI funding in community-focused charging needs across the Commonwealth. As part of framework, PennDOT proposes focusing funding on “corridor connections, community charging, critical investments, and EV charging workforce.” To date, PennDOT has announced $59 million for charging projects that are currently completed, underway, or conditionally awarded.

Pennsylvania can compete for billions of dollars in federal funds across a range of federal grant programs through the BIL, also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). To help communities and organizations learn about these opportunities, PennDOT created a web page, penndot.pa.gov/IIJA, with details on federal grant opportunities to help municipalities, townships, and other community agencies with understanding the multiple transportation program grants that are available. The page includes grant alerts, guides, and links to important resources for local municipalities and organizations interested in pursuing federal funding opportunities.

For more information on NEVI funds in Pennsylvania visit the PennDOT website.