The Miami Valley region is making significant strides in promoting sustainable transportation with the installation of 24 new electric vehicle (EV) chargers, courtesy of the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC). This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions in the area, all while enhancing accessibility to EVs for local residents.
The project, valued at $1.1 million, was made possible through federal Carbon Reduction program funds. The MVRPC is covering all costs associated with the design, construction, and operation of the chargers for the next five years.
On Tuesday, project partners marked the milestone with the first official plug-in of an electric vehicle at the newly constructed Level 2 charger at the Trotwood branch of the Dayton Metro Library. Eighteen chargers are currently operational, with the remaining six expected to go live within the next six months.
These new charging stations are strategically placed across the region, including in Centerville, Bellbrook, and Brookfield, on public lands such as libraries, city halls, and park districts—locations that naturally attract high foot traffic.
Brian Martin, Executive Director of the MVRPC, emphasized the importance of sustainability, carbon reduction, and air quality improvements. “We have good air quality currently in the Miami Valley region, and we want to maintain that. This initiative helps reduce tailpipe emissions and supports our long-term environmental goals,” he stated.
This expansion comes at a time when the demand for EV infrastructure is rapidly increasing. According to Rap Hankins from Drive Electric Dayton, a nonprofit advocating for electric vehicle use, the new chargers provide families and community members with convenient, accessible places to recharge while they engage in daily activities. “Our motto is ‘EVs for all,’ and we want to ensure everyone has the option to drive electric if they choose to,” said Hankins.
As the Miami Valley continues to embrace sustainable transportation solutions, the availability of more EV chargers is expected to play a key role in encouraging greater adoption of electric vehicles, benefiting both the environment and the community’s overall well-being.
