Under a program run by Eversource, the newly renovated Union Station in Springfield, Mass., now houses the first electric vehicle charging ports in the western portion of the state.
Eversource has been working with the state to install and connect charging stations in strategic areas. They have a five-year plan that will see $45 million spent on deployment of such sites. It has already been approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities and will result in more than 400 DC fast charging sites and level 2 charging sites.
“We believe one of the keys to enabling more customers to use electric vehicles with confidence is knowing that when they hop off their train or bus, their vehicle will be charged and ready for the next leg of their journey,” Jim Hunt, Eversource senior vice president and Chief Communications Officer, said.
The new ports at Union Station are public sites, easily accessible. City and state officials are already hailing the upgrade.
“Our city is in the driver’s seat increasing public access to multiple forms of transportation, and electric charging stations are the icing on the cake,” Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno said. “Public transportation provides people with mobility and access to employment, community resources, medical care, and recreational opportunities in communities across the commonwealth.”