If you are driving or plan to drive an electric vehicle (EV) near or in Williamsburg, then there is some good news. More charging options are on the way.
Gov. Andy Beshear recently announced that Williamsburg is one of 11 new locations that were selected for a federally funded fast charging EV station.
Six developers were selected to receive up to $8.6 million to build the charging stations in what is the fourth round of awards to further the state’s EV charging network.
Williamsburg’s fast charging EV station is being developed by Francis Energy Charging LLC and will be built at Torres Mexican Steakhouse, which is located at 125 Walmart Way. The cost for the station is $907,396.
Private developers must design, build, own, operate and maintain fast charging stations for five years after construction is complete. Each developer must fund at least 20 percent of the construction and operational costs. Each station must have at least four charging ports of 150 kilowatts each, be accessible to the public 24 hours a day/seven days a week, and work with most EV models.
This round of funding includes also building charging stations in Bowling Green, Corinth, Hebron, Lexington, Louisville, Manchester, Morgantown, Oak Grove, Paducah and Sadieville.
A Kentucky Transportation Cabinet spokesperson said that a construction timeline for the stations is in development, but that all 11 of these stations are expected to open by the end of 2026.
Williamsburg Mayor Roddy Harrison said that there are already some EV charging stations in town located at Walmart and Pilot Travel Center.
All of these locations are right off Exit 11 less than a quarter mile from one another.
“Kentucky is continuing to lead the charge on the EV front,” said Beshear. “Having a robust charging network means peace of mind for EV drivers who don’t have to worry about whether they’ll find a convenient place to charge up. These fast charging stations are an investment in everyone who lives here, works here and visits our great state. And they will help us welcome more and more people to our New Kentucky Home.”
The stations will be along Kentucky’s interstates and parkways designated as Alternative Fuel Corridors, supporting long-distance driving for drivers across the commonwealth, as well as travelers visiting the Bluegrass State. The funding comes from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program established under the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
In total, Kentucky has now approved 48 fast charging stations from 11 developers for a total of $32.9 million in federal formula funds.
“The federal dollars coming to Kentucky are allowing us to invest in 21st century infrastructure that is supporting driver’s choices,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “That investment is quickly being realized. We’ll see more fast charging stations coming online soon, and we expect to have 50 stations open along Kentucky’s interstates and parkways by late 2026. It’s exciting to see this vital charging network take shape.”
