American Communities Plug into Over Half a Billion in New Funding to Advance EV Future

Aug. 27, 2024

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced $521 million in Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Grant Program awards to continue the build out of electric vehicle (EV) charging and alternative-fueling infrastructure in communities across the country, along designated highways, interstates, and major roadways. The CFI grants, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will fund EV charging and alternative-fueling infrastructure in 29 states, eight Federally Recognized Tribes, and the District of Columbia. That includes the construction of more than 9,200 EV charging ports, with the majority of the investment, $321 million, designated for 41 projects that expand all types of EV infrastructure in communities, including Level 2 and DC fast chargers.

The remaining $200 million goes towards building out fast charging projects along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors. The successful build-out of EV charging infrastructure is supported by the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation (Joint Office), which provides technical assistance on planning and implementation of a national network of EV chargers and zero-emission fueling infrastructure.

“Most EV charging happens at homes, workplaces, or other destinations while vehicles are already parked, providing a safe, reliable, and vastly more convenient way for anyone to fuel,” said Gabe Klein, executive director of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation. “Today’s investments in public community charging fill crucial gaps and provide the foundation for a zero-emission future where everyone can choose to ride or drive electric for greater individual convenience and reduced fueling costs, as well as cleaner air and lower healthcare costs for all Americans.”

This round of funding supports the Administration’s goal that 40% of the overall benefits of federal investments flow into disadvantaged communities, with over half of the funding going to sites located in disadvantaged communities. Investing in these communities will create jobs, reduce transportation costs, and mitigate air pollution that causes asthma and heart disease.

Examples of projects include $15 million to the City of Milwaukee to install EV chargers at 53 sites citywide, and $3.9 million to install publicly accessible community chargers on the Sioux Reservation in North Dakota, so Tribal members can conveniently find services at gathering locations.

For a full list of grant recipients visit FHWA.gov.

Boston:
"The City of Boston is taking bold steps to ensure that every resident, regardless of their neighborhood, has access to electric vehicle charging. Thanks to the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program, Boston will install over 300 EV charging ports, a mix of Level 2 and DC Fast chargers, strategically placed across the city. These chargers will be within a 10-minute walk for most residents, with a strong focus on environmental justice communities. This initiative not only advances our city's commitment to sustainability but also creates economic opportunities by channeling EV charging jobs to disadvantaged communities and businesses. Through partnerships like the Greater Boston Equitable Apprenticeship Program, we're making sure that the benefits of this green transition are shared by all Bostonians."

Cincinnati:
"Cincinnati is breaking down barriers to electric vehicle adoption by bringing charging infrastructure directly to the communities that need it most. With support from the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program, the city will install publicly accessible EV charging ports at 18 key locations, many of which are in or adjacent to disadvantaged communities. These new charging stations will serve residents in low-income and multifamily housing, areas often overlooked by private developers. This project is a crucial step in ensuring that all Cincinnatians, regardless of their income or living situation, have the option to ride and drive electric, contributing to a healthier and more equitable city."

Detroit:
"Detroit is leveraging the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program to deploy EV charging stations at fourteen critical community-based locations, including parks, public parking lots, and curbside spots where home charging isn't feasible. This project is about more than just infrastructure—it's about equity. By placing these chargers in locations accessible to a large portion of Detroit residents and integrating solutions like community-based EV car sharing, we're ensuring that all residents, regardless of where they live, have access to electrified mobility. This initiative is a powerful step toward making Detroit a leader in sustainable transportation, providing clean, affordable, and accessible mobility options for everyone."