Federal officials announced last Monday that Philadelphia will receive more than $11 million to install up to 200 electric vehicle charging ports throughout the region, with a focus on historically disadvantaged communities.

The $11.1 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration will fund the Philadelphia Community Charging Project Regional Partnership, extending charging infrastructure into suburban and rural areas around the city.

The project aims to address one of the main obstacles to electric vehicle adoption: lack of accessible charging stations. Officials say the initiative will prioritize neighborhoods that have traditionally lacked such infrastructure.

"This investment in that new charging network will make it easier for EV drivers across our region to charge their cars, reduce our carbon footprint, and support American workers building these charging stations," said Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-Pa.

The program includes funding for community engagement, planning, design and installation. It also features a workforce development component to create jobs in the emerging electric vehicle infrastructure sector.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker emphasized the project's role in supporting the city's climate goals while promoting equitable access to clean transportation.

"We know that one of the largest barriers to EV adoption is access to charging infrastructure," Parker said. "By expanding access throughout the region, we can support an equitable EV transition."

The funding comes through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which has provided hundreds of millions of dollars for infrastructure improvements in Philadelphia. The project will be implemented through a partnership including the Philadelphia Parking Authority, Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, PECO and PennDOT.