Construction Begins on Pennsylvania’s First Federally-Funded EV Charging Station
In a significant step toward advancing the state’s clean energy goals, the Shapiro Administration has announced that construction is underway at Pennsylvania’s first federally funded electric vehicle (EV) charging station. The station is part of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, funded by the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
The new charging station is being installed at the Pilot Travel Center at 417 Route 315 in Pittston, as part of a collaboration with General Motors. The construction cost of $610,393 is supported by NEVI funds. Once completed, the station will have four charging ports, each capable of providing up to 350 kW of power. In addition to charging services, customers will have 24/7 access to restrooms, Wi-Fi, food, beverages, and other convenience items.
This initiative aligns with the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to addressing climate change, growing the Commonwealth’s economy, and preparing Pennsylvania for the next generation of transportation. “This milestone helps to further our work to ensure that Pennsylvania is ready for a cleaner, safer, more affordable, and more reliable transportation future,” stated a representative from the administration.
The Pittston location is one of 56 projects across 37 counties selected to expand access to reliable EV charging in Pennsylvania. These projects, conditionally awarded funding in the first round, will receive a total of $34.8 million. This investment forms part of the $171.5 million PennDOT will receive and distribute over five years for EV charging infrastructure through the BIL.
The NEVI funding supports the goal of expanding EV charging along the Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs). According to U.S. DOT guidelines, NEVI funds must first be used to ensure there are no more than 50 miles between stations and less than one mile from an AFC exit.
PennDOT plans to release the funding opportunity guidelines for Round 1A of NEVI funding in November and open the program for online submissions in December. Approximately $22 million will be available for this round, which aims to fill the remaining gaps along the AFC network.