Title
Approval of NM Department of Transportation 2025 Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Grant Application for an amount not to exceed $1,600,000 for the Purpose of Designing, Constructing, and Installing Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
Recommended Motion
I move that Council approve the submission of an NM Department of Transportation (NMDOT) 2025 Electric Vehicle Infrastructure grant application in an amount not to exceed $1,600,000 for the purpose of designing, constructing, and installing electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
County Manager's Recommendation
The County Manager recommends that Council approve the motion as presented.
Body
Recently, County staff learned about a grant opportunity from the NM Department of Transportation (NMDOT). The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, enacted as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), Public Law 117-58 (Nov. 15, 2021), includes important new programs to address climate change by reducing carbon emissions. Among these programs is the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program that will provide funding to states to strategically deploy electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and establish an interconnected network. These historic investments in EV charging infrastructure will put the United States on a path to a nationwide network of 500,000 EV chargers by 2030 and ensure a convenient, reliable, affordable, and equitable charging experience for all users.
New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) expects to receive around $38 million from this program over five years from the U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) to install EV charging infrastructure with a US DOT priority on Interstate highway locations.
If awarded, Los Alamos County will utilize these funds to design, construct, provide power, and install three DC Fast charging units at the Municipal Building parking lot. Each charging unit will have dual ports, with a minimum capability of 150kW per unit. The site will be accessible to the public 24 hours per day and 7 days per week. Additionally, the site will be designed in compliance with ADA standards and prioritization of safety will be incorporated into each site design and during construction.
This is a reimbursement grant, the County will be required to fund the project upfront and will be reimbursed upon project completion. If awarded, the project will require a budget revision and general fund transfer. Additionally, the project supports Council’s Strategic Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing infrastructure that will support electric vehicles.
If the submission of the application is approved by Council, staff will ensure that the grant application be submitted by the submission deadline of December 20, 2024. Attachment A shows the Grant Matrix which gives details about this specific grant and shows County Manager approval. Budget and further details for the project as shown in Attachment B.
Alternatives
Council could not approve this application, future project expenses would need to be considered as part of CIP or other budgetary discussions.
Fiscal and Staff Impact/Unplanned Item
There will be minimal staff impact to manage and report on the grant if awarded.
Attachments
A - Grant Matrix
B - NMDOT 2025 EV Infrastructure Grant Budget