MADISON — Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, in cooperation with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), recently announced 53 locations will become the first federally-funded fast-charging electric vehicle (EV) stations in the state, funded through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program under President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. One of these locations will be at the Kwik Trip in Richfield, 2900 State Highway 167.
According to the release, Evers signed legislation back in March enabling WisDOT to receive and administer more than $78 million in federal NEVI funds available to Wisconsin to bolster the state’s EV infrastructure. This allows the state to support these projects, to which WisDOT awarded $23.3 million.
“I’m proud we’ve made historic progress on our work to build the transportation infrastructure Wisconsin needs for a 21st-century workforce and economy,” said Evers. “This EV charging network will support drivers, businesses, tourists, and our economy and workforce as we move towards a cleaner, more sustainable, and more efficient future in Wisconsin.”
The charging stations will be built along Wisconsin’s Alternative Fuel Corridor, reaching all corners of the state, to support more than 23,000EVs registered in the state, as well as travelers and visitors. The selected applicants include fuel retailers, hotels, and restaurants. WisDOT anticipates construction may begin at some locations as early as late summer.
“EVs are a part of the future of transportation, so we are prioritizing resources to make this sustainable option more accessible in our state,” said WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson. “We’re looking forward to a time when EV drivers don’t have to worry about where to find their next charge.”
Of the $78.65 million the state will receive over the next five years under the NEVI Program, WisDOT is evaluating opportunities to invest the remaining $55 million in EV infrastructure projects across Wisconsin.