Somerset County

Somerset County is a leader in EV adoption with the largest percentage of EVs out of all the counties within the NJTPA region. As EV adoption accelerates, planning for charging infrastructure, also known as electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), is vital to meet the growing demand. Transitioning to EVs and building sufficient EVSE is integral to realizing Somerset County’s vision for a modern, sustainable transportation system.

The Somerset County EV Charging and Suitability Analysis project aims to facilitate the transition by developing a comprehensive roadmap for the County’s EV fleet conversion and identifying optimal locations for EVSE deployment. The project has three main objectives:

1. Develop County Fleet Transition Plan
2. Identify and Analyze Secondary Electric Vehicle Charging Corridors
3. Identify Public Charging Locations on County-Owned Sites

By transitioning to EVs and strategically expanding EVSE, Somerset County aims to lead by example in advancing New Jersey’s clean energy and sustainability goals. This study provides a clear path to achieving a cleaner, more efficient, and equitable transportation future.

Project TimelineResources

The following plans, policies, and initiatives underscore local and regional commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and promoting sustainable transportation solutions.

• 2018 Somerset County Electric Vehicle Readiness Plan
• 2021 Climate Change Policy Resolution
• New Jersey’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Deployment Plan
  

The Somerset County Planning Division is leading the project and has contracted WSP USA Inc. (WSP) to accomplish project objectives. WSP will be supported by Arch Street Communications, a New York based D/WBE firm. Key project team members include:

• Samantha De Andrea, PP, AICP, Director, Planning Division, Somerset County
• Kenneth Wedeen, PP, AICP, Supervising Planner, Somerset County (Co-Project Manager)
• Jonathan Eagle, Senior Transportation Planner, Somerset County (Co-Project Manager)
• Debbie Hartman, WSP (Project Manager)
• Charvi Gupta, WSP (Fleet Transition Lead)

The project is funded with federal funds through the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) FY 2025-2026 Subregional Studies program.

The project team prioritizes public engagement to facilitate community involvement and gather constructive feedback throughout the course of the project. The engagement strategy adheres to NJTPA's "Engage!" framework and Somerset County's equity goals to involve key stakeholders, including but not limited to hard-to-reach communities, renters, small businesses, and municipal partners, through a combination of in-person, digital, and mobile outreach. The activities include focus groups, stakeholder group meetings, fleet transition working group sessions, public meetings, and pop-up events at community hubs. Additionally, the project leverages digital tools such as online surveys and public mapping to expand the reach and efficiency of public engagement.

Technical Advisory Committee

The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) is composed of representatives from various county departments as well as external stakeholders. The committee will assist with establishing project goals, reviewing technical findings, and participating in public engagement activities. This collaborative approach will ensure that the project benefits from diverse perspectives and expertise, ultimately leading to a comprehensive and effective EV charging infrastructure plan tailored to community needs.

Engagement Opportunities

• Public Meeting #2 has been recorded and is viewable here! Click here for Main Meeting Recording. Click here for Breakout Room 2 Recording.