Traffic & Transit
DART embraces sustainability with new EV charging stations
Collaborative effort leads to charging infrastructure expansion
Dallas, Texas - In a move emphasizing its dedication to environmental sustainability, the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) has launched electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at two DART Rail locations which previously lacked such facilities.
This enhancement was realized in collaboration with the North Central Texas Council of Governments. It addresses the pressing need for EV charging infrastructure at the selected sites, namely Glenn Heights Park & Ride and Illinois Station.
The stations are equipped with Blink Series 8 Dual Port Level 2 Chargers, providing a charging period of 4 to 8 hours. This ensures that EV users can comfortably integrate charging into their daily schedule. Commuters can park and charge their vehicles while they make use of DART’s rail services. When they return, their vehicles will be ready for use.
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These chargers have the added benefit of a dual-port feature, allowing two vehicles to charge concurrently. As an added incentive, DART has announced that the charging stations will be free of charge until August 31, 2024. This provision allows users to embrace sustainable energy without the associated costs, encouraging a shift toward eco-friendly transportation.
Funding for this initiative, amounting to $79,472, was provided through a grant from the North Central Texas Council of Governments’ Electric Vehicle Charging Station Call for Projects. The project was backed by Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds, emphasizing the dual goals of improving air quality and reducing traffic congestion.
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These charging stations also serve as a testbed for DART, allowing them to gather data on the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and broader advantages of such sustainable ventures. The insights obtained will guide future expansion across DART's network.
On the topic, Glenn Heights interim city manager Keith Moore remarked, “With the purchase of electric vehicles on the rise due to consumer preferences, auto industry trends, and potential requirements set by governing bodies – local governments will have to begin to think about how to make their cities EV ready.”
