The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is now accepting applications to expand the coverage of federally funded electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Wisconsin to include heavily traveled U.S. and state highway corridors.
Wisconsin was apportioned $78.65 million under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program in 2021, through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). NEVI sets the groundwork to build out a national network of EV charging stations.
To date, WisDOT has awarded about $37 million to support 78 projects at fuel retailers, grocery stores, hotels and restaurants throughout the state. 21 of those charging stations are now operational. WisDOT issued the first two rounds of grant awards to businesses building charging stations along the state’s Alternative Fuel Corridor (AFC) system, which includes interstates and U.S. highways. See a map and list of locations online.
The AFC network is now considered fully built out. Sites selected for the next round of funding, through the Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (WEVI) Connecting Corridors Program, will be on designated corridors to provide additional charging options and support businesses in nearby communities and regions. This map identifies the eligible corridors (FBO-Fully Built Out indicates connecting corridors).
“Businesses throughout Wisconsin have stepped up to help us deliver a reliable network of charging options for the growing number of EV users in the state. With more than 40,000 EVs registered in Wisconsin, and even more travelers coming here to visit, we’ve seen frequent and steady use of the chargers that are operational right now. We’re eager to find opportunities to add more convenient choices for EV drivers and bring more visitors into local communities,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said.
The charging stations will be within one mile of a highway intersection or interstate exit and feature four charger ports. In addition to providing fast and convenient charging, these stations will offer amenities such as restrooms and food and beverage options.
WisDOT is currently accepting project proposals through Friday, July 24, 2026. WisDOT will then review the submitted applications and announce awards in fall 2026. Wisconsin currently has approximately $40 million available in unobligated funds for the program. Funding covers up to 80% of eligible costs. Prospective grantees are required to provide a minimum 20% match of the eligible costs from non-federal sources.
More information on Wisconsin’s electrification program can be found on the WisDOT website.
