"This project marks a significant advancement in creating a cleaner, more inclusive and accessible transportation system for all Austinites," Mayor Kirk Watson said in a statement. "By prioritizing equity, sustainability and community engagement, we’re not just building EV chargers; we’re creating opportunities for economic growth, job creation and a better quality of life for all corners of our city."
What's happening
AE received $15 million from the Department of Transportation's Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Program. U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin, helped secure the federal funding under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, his office announced Jan. 7.
“Austin is on an electrifying path to limit our dependency on gas-guzzling vehicles that pollute the air we breathe and contribute to the climate crisis we can feel," Doggett said in a statement. "Since ensuring greater accessibility to charging stations has been one of my legislative priorities, I am pleased that we can begin to assure drivers the ability to readily recharge their vehicles whenever and wherever needed."
A $3.75 million local match will also go toward the city electric utility's EV charging infrastructure project. That funding may come from a project partner to be selected through a bidding process, said Cameron Freberg, AE's manager of EV and emerging technologies.
The details
Upwards of 200 new Direct Current Fast Charger and Level 2 charging ports will be installed in "strategically chosen" places around Austin with the new funding, according to AE. The exact number and location of chargers aren't yet finalized.
New charging stations could be placed at apartment complexes, schools, community centers and other public facilities, the utility said, with the goal of reducing cost and access barriers to "clean and affordable transportation." Sites will be picked based on their EV charging needs, accessibility and power availability, and Freberg said AE anticipates installation will begin in 2026.
The project comes as both the city and county look to electrify more of their vehicle fleets, and after Austin officials approved new regulations to support the installation of EV charging infrastructure around the city.
“Austin has already established itself as a leader in electric vehicle adoption, and this investment in charging infrastructure will ensure our city remains at the forefront of clean transportation innovation," Watson said.
