NYC pioneers sustainable urban transport with major federal grant

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced the city’s receipt of a $15 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

This grant, part of the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program, will fund the nation’s largest municipal curbside electric vehicle (EV) charging initiative, marking a significant step in reducing transportation emissions and fostering an inclusive green economy.

The initiative aims to install 600 Level 2 EV chargers throughout the five boroughs, with an emphasis on serving disadvantaged and low-income neighborhoods.

Additionally, 32 solar-powered charging ports will be constructed at various New York City Department of Parks and Recreation locations, enhancing the city’s current pilot program of 100 chargers.

“We’re building a cleaner, greener, and more affordable city for all New Yorkers, and through initiatives like this, we’re making sure that no New Yorkers are left behind,” said Mayor Adams. “This $15 million grant will let us build the nation’s largest EV charging program, focused on low-income and disadvantaged areas so people living in all five boroughs can afford to drive and charge electric vehicles — especially as we continue to transition all of our for-hire vehicles to EVs through our ‘Green Rides’ initiative.”

The new chargers will support the city’s ambitious “Green Rides” initiative, which mandates Uber and Lyft to adopt 100% electric or wheelchair-accessible for-hire vehicles by 2030.

Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi emphasized the importance of accessible charging, stating, “Supporting the transition to electric vehicles means ensuring that everyone has quick and easy access to chargers — especially taxi and for-hire-vehicle drivers, who will lead the way towards a modal shift.”

New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez highlighted the equity aspect of the program: “But we must ensure no New Yorker is left behind in the transition to a sustainable tomorrow. As a former cab driver, I understand how important equity of access will be to our efforts to transition for-hire vehicles away from fossil fuels.”

The expansion of the EV infrastructure is a vital component of New York City’s broader strategy to decarbonize transportation and improve air quality, aiming to avert an estimated 8,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. This effort aligns with recent federal legislation, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, which have unlocked unprecedented federal funding for infrastructure projects.

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson praised the initiative: “By expanding access to safe and reliable EV charging, we are not only supporting the transition to cleaner transportation alternatives but also addressing long-standing disparities in our EV infrastructure.”

The Adams administration continues to push for equitable and sustainable urban transport solutions, integrating EV charging with broader initiatives like the expansion of protected bike lanes and the “NYC Ferry Forward” discount program. This transformative project represents a significant step in making New York City a global leader in clean energy and green technology, ensuring a thriving environment for future generations.