$25 Million Federal Investment to Install Charging Stations in New York City
Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Charles Schumer, along with Mayor Eric Adams, have announced a $25 million federal investment to install 173 lithium-ion battery, electric bicycle, and electric skateboard storage and charging stations at 53 retail locations in New York City. The initiative aims to address the increasing number of fires caused by these devices and ensure the safety of residents.
The charging stations will be located outside and will be equipped with electrical work and fireproof materials. This investment comes in response to at least 108 fires that have occurred in the city during the first six months of the year, resulting in the loss of 13 lives. In the past week alone, four seniors, including the parents of an Asian New Yorker, lost their lives in one of these fires.
Mayor Eric Adams expressed his gratitude to Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for their contribution to the initiative. He took to social media to share the news and wrote, “We are so grateful to @SenSchumer and @SenGillibrand for giving $25 million to @NYCHA for the installation of safe charging batteries to prevent electric bike fires and keep our families safe. Proud to be with them in this fight.”
The United Deliveristas, workers responsible for distributing food and other items across the city, also expressed their support for the initiative. Antonio Solís, a member of Deliveristas Unidos, emphasized the importance of creating charging stations in every corner of the city to ensure the safety of workers. The organization has been working with the Department of Transportation to identify areas where deliverists are located and work, in order to establish more stations closer to them.
William Medina, another member of Deliveristas Unidos, highlighted the risks associated with the use of these technologies and the accidents that workers and their families have experienced throughout the city. While the announced initiative is seen as a positive step, the union believes that more needs to be done. They are calling for the creation of a fund to help workers invest in batteries and for the city to work with manufacturers to ensure the batteries used by deliverists are certified.
When asked about the timeline for the installation of the charging stations, the senators mentioned that installations are likely to begin early next year. In the meantime, residents are reminded to remain vigilant, purchase certified non-remanufactured batteries, and regularly monitor the charge of their devices. These actions can help save lives and protect families.
The $25 million federal investment in charging stations is a significant step towards addressing the fire risks associated with electric bicycles and other devices in New York City. It demonstrates the commitment of local leaders and lawmakers to prioritize the safety of residents and prevent further tragedies.