VERGENNES — The city of Vergennes is applying for a small grant that could make a big difference for local owners of electric vehicles.
Vergennes is seeking $12,000 to establish a two-port charging station in the city’s downtown. The city council in late April authorized City Manager Matt Chabot to apply for the grant from the Vermont Department of Housing and Economic Development. If the city is awarded the grant it would have to supply a $1,200 match to complete the project, possibly by tapping the Vergennes Water Tower Fund.
Chabot last week said he was at least cautiously optimistic about the city’s chances of receiving the grant, in part because the closest charging station is now on Meigs Road, tucked out of sight away from the beaten path.
The station would be built on the corner of the city green nearest the downtown traffic light. Motorists who want to charge their vehicles would pay $1 an hour, Chabot said, and during the day would have to be mindful of the city’s three-hour parking ordinance. Those wishing a full charge would have to park after hours, he said.
Chabot said the station would allow vehicle owners to “top off” their charges while running errands or dining in Vergennes.
“It’s not necessarily intended for people to park there all day,” he said.