January 17, 2024

Duckworth, Durbin Announce More Than $7 Million to Improve Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

 

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced $7,074,498 for the Illinois Department of Transportation through the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Reliability and Accessibility Accelerator Program to repair or replace broken or non-operational EV chargers to improve the reliability of existing charging infrastructure.

“Electric vehicles help lower fuel costs and reduce emissions, but accessible, reliable charging stations throughout our state are critical for success,” said Duckworth. “I’m pleased to see this support will help improve the infrastructure of charging stations in Illinois and make electric vehicle use more accessible for all Illinoisans.”

“By bolstering the accessibility and dependability of electric vehicle charging stations, we’re not only promoting eco-friendly transportation, but also ensuring Illinois remains at the forefront of the clean energy revolution,” said Durbin. “This investment will foster a more sustainable future, where electric vehicles play a pivotal role in reducing our carbon footprint and advance the goals of a healthier environment for our residents.”

Last week, Duckworth and Durbin announced nearly $15 million awarded to Illinois through DOT’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program to install community charging sites to fill gaps in access to electric vehicle charging infrastructure across 273 locations.

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