In unveiling his proposed $26 million 2023 Capital Budget plan, Mayor Byron W. Brown called for a $1 million investment into the installation of Electronic Vehicle (EV) charging stations and infrastructure throughout the city of Buffalo. This investment is expected to leverage five to ten times that amount from state and federal funding.
“The capital budget process is an essential process that takes place every single year. It addresses the most pressing needs of residents in our community,” said Mayor Byron W. Brown. “I'd like to thank everyone involved in the process. I’d like to thank the common council for their dedication as well. My hope is that, after deliberation, the council will adopt this capital budget so that we can continue the momentum of progress in the city.”
The initiative calls for an equitable distribution of EV charging infrastructure throughout the city on city-owned properties. Over the next year, charging stations will be placed in parks, along local streets, and in city-owned parking lots and ramps.
Parking Commissioner Ray Wagner will oversee EV station installations along streets, city-owned parking lots, and city-owned parking facilities. Department of Public Works Commissioner Nate Marton will oversee EV station installation inside city-owned structures and buildings, as part of the city’s Climate Action Plan. Marton will also oversee another aspect of the initiative, and that is to convert city-owned vehicles into electric vehicles.
The allocation of $1 million toward EV charging stations is one of many strategic investments outlined in the proposed 2023 Capital Budget spending plan. This year’s budget continues the Brown Administration’s commitment to equitable and inclusive improvements in neighborhoods citywide and provides additional funds for public safety, infrastructure, building maintenance, roads and sidewalks, street cleaning and other services that improve the quality of life for the city’s residents.
Highlights from the proposed Capital Budget include:
- Community Safety Buildings and Equipment: This includes a rapid response vehicle with a trailer, emergency generators, and other equipment for the fire department. This also includes police garage windows, renovations for B and E district police stations and a roof for the special operation center.
- Cultural Institution Support: This includes institutions such as the Buffalo Zoo, the Buffalo History Museum, the Alleyway Theater, local libraries and more.
- City-wide park improvements and tree replacement.
CLICK HERE TO MAKE PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING THE PLACEMENT OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS