Write a commentCity of Oswego officials and other dignitaries gathered at Breitbeck Park Monday morning to announce the installation of a new electric vehicle charging station.
Joining Mayor Billy Barlow at the ceremony were Katie Toomey of CenterState CEO, Amanda Mazzoni of the CNY Planning and Development Board, Alberto Bianchetti from National Grid and Kate Crook from Livingston Energy Group.
Mayor Barlow said that the new charging stations being installed at several locations around the city are an economic development tool, as electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular with the public. Availability of more charging stations will be beneficial to residents and visitors alike. "This administration has been very forward-looking as we choose projects to pursue. Electric vehicles are the future of transportation," the Mayor said. He also credited the City's Common Council for working together to help bring the project to fruition.
Amanda Mazzoni said that motor vehicles account for about one third of carbon emissions, and that greater usage of electric vehicles will help to reduce that amount. She also said, "Passenger vehicles in New York State will be required to have zero emissions by 2035. More electric vehicles will help to reach that mandate."
Alberto Bianchetti said that National Grid plans to have over 6800 charging stations installed in upstate New York by 2030. "The company invested over $4 million in 2021 on electric vehicle charging infrastructure," he said. Bianchetti also stated that additional charging stations in Oswego County will be located in Phoenix and Pulaski, with more to follow.
Kate Crook, representing Livingston Energy Group, said that the New York based company has enjoyed working with city officials on the project. She also thanked the CNY EV Drivers Group and National Grid for bringing some of their personal electric vehicles to the dedication ceremony.
The City's only previous charging station was located on West 2nd Street near City Hall. The new station is located in the southwest corner of the Breitbeck Park lot closest to West 8th and Lake Streets. Additional locations will be announced as they become available.
