Somerset County is charging into the future with Powering Ahead for Somerset County, the 12-month study funded by the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) Subregional Studies Program.
The study will explore how to transition the county’s fleet to electric vehicles, identify and designate EV charging corridors to guide the placement of future charging stations, and determine which county-owned properties can support the installation of stations for both residents and county vehicles. This effort positions the County as a leader in sustainable transportation while helping to reduce harmful emissions, improve air quality, and make it easier for families, commuters, and businesses to adopt electric vehicles and benefit from a cleaner and more connected community.
“The Board of County Commissioners is committed to building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for our residents,” said Commissioner Sara Sooy, who represents Somerset County on the NJTPA Board of Trustees. “With more people making the switch to electric vehicles, this study will ensure we have the infrastructure and planning in place to support them. By reducing pollution, improving air quality, and creating convenient charging options, we’re not only helping current families, commuters, and businesses, but also laying the groundwork for future generations to thrive in a greener community.”
In 2023, Somerset County became the first county in New Jersey to deploy electric vehicles for public transportation. To further create an eco-friendlier future for residents, Somerset County will continue to transition its fleet of gas and diesel-powered vehicles to alternative carbon-neutral fuels like electricity. This gradual switch will also advance the environmental outcomes established in the 2018 Somerset County EV Readiness Plan and the 2021 Somerset County Climate Change Resolution.
The new study will also work to identify and designate alternative fueling locations along major roadways to install future charging stations, electric vehicle service equipment (ESVE), and other infrastructure for alternative fueling.
To further support the study, the Somerset County Department of Engineering & Planning has created a dedicated webpage that will keep residents updated on public outreach initiatives. The events, which are intended to solicit feedback and suggestions from residents, municipalities, and local businesses, will include community pop-ups, public meetings, focus groups, online surveys, mapping exercises, an equity analysis for underserved communities, and workforce development and training for building an EVSE maintenance workforce.
Upcoming Public Event Dates
Public Zoom Meeting
- Thursday, September 18, 6-8 p.m. Register here.
Public Pop-Up Events
- Saturday, September 20, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., at the North Plainfield Hispanic Heritage Festival, 614 Green Brook Road in North Plainfield.
- Sunday, October 5, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., at the Somerville Street Fair & Craft Show, 2 Division St. in Somerville.
Residents are encouraged to reach out with any questions or comments regarding the project by contacting evstudy@co.somerset.nj.us.