Legislation sponsored by Council Members Rodriguez and Constantinides Would Create Pilot Program to Make Electric Vehicle Ownership in NYC More Feasible
As Earth Day approaches, the NYC Council's Transportation Committee will consider legislation to make it easier to own an electric vehicle in New York City. The committee will also vote on a resolution to officially designate Earth Day this year, Car Free Day, based on the initiative started by Council Member Rodriguez.
Vehicles produce nearly a quarter of the total emission output in New York City. As the city works to reduce emissions by 80% by the year 2030, easing New Yorkers' reliance upon fossil fuel burning cars and trucks can go a long way toward achieving this goal. With electric vehicle charging stations tucked away in sparsely located parking garages, ownership of these energy efficient cars can be burdensome, as anxiety over ample charging accessibility can dissuade potential owners.
Intro 1124, sponsored by Council Members Constantinides and Rodriguez, would establish a pilot program for on street charging stations for electric vehicles in each borough. As gas stations are slowly disappearing in New York City, particularly in lower Manhattan, the opportunity to establish new and more sustainable fuel source locations is ripe.
