Seattle is one of a handful of cities participating in the nation’s largest electric vehicle demonstration, the EV Project. With the help of millions in federal stimulus dollars, the City of Seattle is collaborating with Puget Sound local governments, businesses, non-profits, and electric vehicle enthusiasts, to create a robust regional charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.

With a federal grant from the Puget Sound Clean Cities Coalition, the City of Seattle is installing 22 publicly available EV charging stations in five locations around Seattle – SeaPark Garage, 609 Sixth Ave.; Pacific Place Garage, 600 Pine St.; Seattle Center, Fifth and Harrison; Central Library, 1000 Fourth Ave.; and City Hall, 600 Fourth Ave. The City is also installing EV charging stations to serve its fleet.

To date, the Department of Planning and Development, has issued 256 EV charging station permits and estimates there will eventually be 1,000 charging stations in Seattle City Light’s service area.

The City’s Fleet Services regularly replaces vehicles at the end of their life cycle. Since creating its Green Fleets action plan in 2003, the City’s long-term goal is to have a fleet that is 100 percent clean and green – using clean fuels, having fuel efficient vehicles, and low emission vehicles. Seattle is planning on purchasing  35 new Leafs to replace regular gas vehicles scheduled to be decommissioned between now and 2012. In the last three years, the City has reduced the size of its rolling stock fleet by about 400 vehicles down to approximately 4,225. In addition, although electric vehicles cost more to purchase, the City will save $4,000 dollars in fueling and maintenance costs over the lifetime of a vehicle and reduce up to 23 tons of greenhouse gas over the same time period.

Come to a party in the street! Imagine the possibilities. Summer Streets show how livable city streets can be when opened to people and bikes. There are two Summer Streets events coming up this weekend – one in Ballard and one on along Alki.

For three hours only on Friday, May 20 we are turning the streets of downtown Ballard into one massive bike party! More info here.

On Sunday, May 22, it’s Alki’s turn. There’s a 5k run/walk, children’s activities, entertainment and food. More info here.

Bike Commuters (by Don Brubeck)

Looks like we’re going to have some great weather this Friday for F5 Bike to Work Day!

F5 Bike to Work Day is a great day to ride for the first time, because no matter where you’re riding from, you won’t be alone. Commuter Stations and experienced riders along major routes will ensure that encouragement, support, and fun are never in short supply. And be sure to check out the rally at City Hall from 7:30-8:30 a.m.  Have fun everyone!