Harrison Adds Two EV Charging Stations with OKI Funding
One at the Community Center, one at the Harrison Branch Library.
National Support for Local Development
The city of Harrison is expanding its infrastructure with the installation of two new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, funded through the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments (OKI). One charger will be installed at the Harrison Community Center, backed by a $186,300 grant, while the second charger will be placed at the Harrison Public Library, funded through a separate OKI grant awarded to the Hamilton County Library system. These charging stations will feature Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) technology, enabling vehicles to charge within minutes, offering a convenient solution for residents and visitors who need a quick charge.
The funding for these EV chargers comes from the Carbon Reduction Program, established under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) passed by Congress in 2021. This federal initiative provides financial support to states and regional organizations, like OKI, to improve transportation infrastructure, including the development of EV charging networks. This program aims to help cities like Harrison modernize while offering more convenience to both local and visiting electric vehicle owners.
Strategic Location for Charging Stations
According to City Councilman, Doug Abrams, Harrison initially considered installing four charging stations, including two downtown. After evaluating infrastructure costs, it was determined that placing a single charger at the community center would be more efficient, given the existing electrical setup at these locations. This decision allowed the city to proceed without facing significant delays or additional expenses, ensuring the charger would be available sooner.
Ownership and Operation
The city will own and be responsible for maintaining the EV charging station in the Community Center. According to David T. Shuey, Director of Information Systems & Analytics for OKI, the Federal government requires grant recipients to maintain this infrastructure for its useful life, estimated at about 5-6 years. The city’s grant request included funding for maintenance for the first five years, so this period will be covered at no additional cost to the city. Once the charger is installed, the city has full discretion as to usage fee for using the charging station. OKI recommends grant recipients charge for the use of the station to cover the cost of electricity and ongoing maintenance.
I was not able learn what the make or model of the charger would be, but based on the chargers awarded to previous grant recipients, I predict it to be a ChargePoint brand charger and likely either the Express Plus, Express 280 or Express 250. You can learn more about ChargePoint and their Express chargers here.
Regional Connection and Benefits
These new chargers are part of a broader regional effort led by OKI to install 43 EV charging stations across Greater Cincinnati. Communities such as Fairfield, Hamilton, and Blue Ash are also participating in this initiative, creating a regional network of fast chargers. Harrison’s participation in this program ensures that the city will remain accessible to EV drivers traveling through the region, potentially increasing foot traffic to local businesses as drivers stop to charge their vehicles.
Looking Ahead
As Harrison continues to grow, these EV charging stations represent the city's proactive approach to meeting future transportation needs. The chargers are expected to be operational soon, offering a new amenity for residents and visitors alike.
Updated October 30, 2024: Added additional information on maintenance funding and ownership responsibilities from OKI as well as speculation on charger make and model.