The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) recently submitted an update to the state’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plan under the Federal Highway Administration’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program. The NEVI Program aims to create a network of 500,000 electric vehicle chargers across the US by 2030.
Illinois FY 2024 Approved Plan
Illinois does not currently have any NEVI-funded stations under construction. However, IDOT is working to establish the selection process for the first round of NEVI awards, targeting a release by the end of 2023. IDOT envisions that this first round will result in selection of approximately 46 stations for either initial construction or upgrades to meet the requirements of 23 CFR 680. The goal with this first round of funding is to achieve a fully-built out designation of the state’s AFCs.
Illinois has made deploying EV charging infrastructure a priority as the state works towards its goal of 1 million electric vehicles on roads by 2030. The 2023 NEVI Plan Update outlines IDOT’s progress over the past year in collaborating with stakeholders and beginning to implement the statewide charging network.
Extensive outreach has played a key role, including three public meetings and an interactive online map that received over 200 suggestions for charger locations. Targeted engagement was also conducted with organizations serving disadvantaged communities to help ensure equitable access.
The plan discusses plans to achieve a “fully built out” designation with chargers covering all interstate mileages in the state. IDOT has identified additional locations beyond minimum requirements to provide reliable charging access. Initial proposals are also presented for utilizing remaining funds after full buildout, such as installing chargers along key routes and in underserved areas.
Equity is a core consideration, with IDOT outlining the process for identifying benefits for transportation disadvantaged communities per Justice40 guidelines. Contracting steps include procuring a consultant to assist with the grant program that will competitively select charger locations and operators using NEVI funds.
As adoption grows—electric vehicle registrations increased 60% in Illinois over the past year—the plan emphasizes providing drivers confidence in public charging availability. With extensive stakeholder input, Illinois is working to strategically deploy its portion of the historic $5 billion in NEVI funding to support the state’s clean transportation and economic goals. The update demonstrates the state’s ongoing progress and commitment to developing a comprehensive EV charging network.
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