WASHINGTON -- Wondering where future alternative-fueling sites might be located? The government has an idea.
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced 55 routes across 35 states that will serve as the beginnings of a national network of alternative-fuel corridors. The network spans nearly 85,000 miles, although it will grow as more alternative-fueling sites are built to serve future electric, hydrogen, propane and natural-gas-powered vehicles.
“Alternative fuels and electric vehicles will play an integral part in the future of America’s transportation system,” said Anthony Foxx, U.S. transportation secretary. “We have a duty to help drivers identify routes that will help them refuel and recharge those vehicles, and designating these corridors on our highways is a first step.”
Corridors that already have alternative-fueling sites in operation will be eligible for signs alerting drivers to the presence of the stations. The signs look similar to those already on highways alerting drivers to food, gasoline and lodging options at each exit.
The establishment of the corridors fulfills a directive in the “Fixing America’s Surface Transportation” (FAST) Act. In July, Foxx asked states to nominate potential corridors on major highways that feature electric-vehicle (EV) charging, natural gas, propane and hydrogen fueling locations. Congress designated these specific fuels in the FAST Act.
The government hopes that the establishment of the alternative-fuel corridors, which will serve lower-emission vehicles, will help the United States meet its 2015 pledge to cut greenhouse-gas (GHG) emissions by 80% or more by 2050. Transportation is the biggest source of GHG emissions in the country. Low gasoline prices have not helped; according to new FHWA data, gasoline consumption rose 3% in first-half 2016 vs. first-half 2015, the largest jump in nearly two decades.
“Identifying where alternative-fueling stations can be found will help the public in many ways,” said Gregory Nadeau, federal highway administrator. “This initial designation sets the stage for the next round of nominations early next year and begins a conversation with stakeholders about developing and implementing a vision to enable coast-to-coast travel using alternative fuels.”
To see a list of the alternative-fuel “sign-ready” corridors as well as those that are under consideration, click here.
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