In a significant step towards sustainable transportation, the City of Blythe has been awarded a groundbreaking grant of $19 million. This marks a major milestone in the City’s commitment to environmental stewardship and public-private partnership excellence. Facilitated through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant program, this grant funds the installation of the WattEV Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station project in Blythe.
Strategically located along the I-10 Corridor, this ambitious project promises to serve as a vital charging point for travelers navigating the route between Phoenix and Los Angeles. The collaboration between the City and WattEV aims to significantly expand publicly accessible EV charging, hydrogen, propane and natural gas fueling infrastructure. This initiative stands as a crucial development in promoting alternative fuel options within the community and for those passing through.
“By prioritizing sustainable development and expanding our network of accessible EV charging stations, Blythe is driving the transition to clean transportation,” said Interim City Manager Mallory Crecelius. “We are proud to partner and collaborate with WattEV on this significant project that positions Blythe as a leader in the clean energy initiative. This collaboration attracts more opportunities for sustainable development and innovation, fostering economic growth for our future.”
The initiative has garnered substantial support from a range of influential figures and organizations. California Assemblyman Eduardo Garcia, California State Senator Steve Padilla, Riverside County Fourth District Supervisor Manuel V. Perez, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) and the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) have all issued letters of support – recognizing the project’s critical role in regional and environmental progress.
“These substantial investments from the federal government play a pivotal role in advancing the development of essential public truck charging infrastructure, a key factor for the success of commercial freight electrification on the West Coast and beyond.” said Watt EV CEO and Co-founder Salim Youssefzadeh. “Our team takes immense pride in leading this build-out from San Diego to Seattle, and now venturing east toward Arizona and beyond.”
The funding will support the creation of a state-of-the-art EV charging facility, equipped with solar and battery storage systems, catering to both trucks and private passenger vehicles. With California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review completed and site plan approval obtained, WattEV is diligently progressing through the development stages.
The initiative is part of a larger federal effort, allocating $622.57 million in funding to 47 applicants nationwide, aimed at enhancing the country’s EV charging and alternative fueling infrastructure.
With the support of key state and federal representatives, as well as major transportation agencies, the City of Blythe is at the forefront of a sustainable transportation future. This project not only places Blythe in a pivotal position in the national electrification effort but also ensures the City’s readiness to support the growing demands for alternative fueling infrastructure.
For further details about the grant award, visit the Federal Highway Administration’s website.