Michigan Unlocks $51 Million in Federal Funds to Expand EV Charging Network Across West Michigan

Michigan has secured $51 million in remaining federal funding to accelerate the deployment of electric vehicle charging stations across the state, with significant investments planned for West Michigan communities including Grand Rapids and Muskegon.

The Michigan Department of Transportation announced the funding on April 6, enabling a third round of applications to ensure every Michigan community has access to NEVI funds for charging infrastructure.

Statewide EV Charging Goals

MDOT is currently deploying 83 NEVI charging stations across Michigan, with state officials estimating the program could ultimately fund around 100 stations. The infrastructure buildout supports the state plan to accommodate two million EVs on Michigan roads by 2030.

As of early 2026, Michigan reports 2,102 charging locations across the state, though experts question whether the state can meet its 2030 target.

West Michigan Investment Focus

The $51 million investment aims to close geographic gaps in EV charging access and support medium-duty vehicles and commercial fleets. MDOT officials stated the program will promote equitable access and align charging investments with economic development, tourism, and long-term grid considerations.

Following the first two rounds of procurement in February 2024 and June 2025, earlier selections have yielded 82 new charging sites across Michigan. Just seven of these stations are currently operational, with the remainder under construction, in design phases, or awaiting contracts.

Third Round Applications

MDOT is now preparing for a third round of applications with the intention of providing every Michigan community the opportunity to access NEVI funds. The department is actively working with local governments, tribal nations, utilities, industry partners and other stakeholders to align program implementation with statewide priorities.

The NEVI Formula Program complements Michigan's previous and existing EV charging efforts, including Charge Up Michigan, the Lake Michigan Circuit, and the Clean Fuel and Charging Infrastructure programs.

Construction Timeline

Earlier Round 1 and Round 2 selections have yielded a total of 82 new charging sites across the state. The funding will help accelerate the buildout of these locations, which have been selected through a competitive procurement process.

This investment represents continued federal commitment to Michigan's transportation infrastructure, with the federal Highway Administration providing $106 million in total funding for EV charging infrastructure deployment.

Community Impact

The expansion of EV charging infrastructure will directly benefit West Michigan residents and businesses by reducing range anxiety for EV drivers, supporting electric commercial vehicle adoption, and creating jobs related to infrastructure installation and maintenance.

Local governments in counties like Kent, Muskegon, and Osceola can now apply for funding to develop charging stations at key locations including municipal parking facilities, shopping centers, and transit hubs.

Sources

• https://www.michigan.gov/mdot/news-outreach/pressreleases/2026/04/06/mdot-advancing-michigans-ev-charging-network-through-remaining-51-million-nevi-investment
• https://www.thecentersquare.com/michigan/article_87335b83-250d-42c2-9479-6d487cb45bd8.html
• https://electrive.com/2026/04/07/green-light-for-michigans-2026-ev-infrastructure-plan/
• https://www.govtech.com/infrastructure/federal-funds-to-power-8-ev-charging-stations-around-michigan
• https://www.miningjournal.net/news/local/2026/04/mdot-advancing-michigans-ev-charging-network-through-remaining-51-million-nevi-investment/