Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (WEVI) Connecting Corridors Grant Program

The Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (WEVI) Connecting Corridors Request for Proposals is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation as part of the state’s broader electrification initiative. This program operates under the framework of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, which is supported by the Federal Highway Administration. WisDOT’s role is to deploy funding strategically to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure across Wisconsin in alignment with federal guidance and statewide transportation goals. The WEVI program builds upon prior rounds of funding focused on Alternative Fuel Corridors and now seeks to expand charging access to additional regional corridors. The primary purpose of the WEVI Connecting Corridors funding opportunity is to support the deployment of electric vehicle charging stations in areas not previously designated as Alternative Fuel Corridors. This effort is intended to close infrastructure gaps and ensure a more comprehensive and accessible EV charging network throughout the state. The program prioritizes geographic coverage, access in underserved or unserved areas, and support for economic development and tourism. It also aligns with long-term goals of improving transportation efficiency, reducing emissions, and supporting the transition to electric mobility. Funding for this program is derived from federal NEVI allocations, with Wisconsin receiving significant multi-year funding to implement its infrastructure strategy. The program includes cost-sharing requirements, as stakeholders previously identified an 80 percent federal and 20 percent non-federal match structure. Applicants must ensure that proposed projects meet all federal compliance requirements, including adherence to 23 CFR 680 standards and other applicable federal laws such as Buy America provisions, Davis-Bacon wage requirements, ADA compliance, and civil rights statutes. Funds are intended for capital deployment of EV charging infrastructure and must meet technical and operational standards. Eligible applicants are expected to include a range of entities capable of developing, owning, and operating EV charging infrastructure. This may include private businesses, utilities, local governments, and other organizations engaged in transportation or energy infrastructure. Applicants must demonstrate compliance with both federal and Wisconsin-specific statutes and administrative codes. Proposals must also include a completed compliance checklist affirming adherence to all required regulations and standards outlined in the RFP documentation. The submission process requires applicants to complete and submit the official WEVI Connecting Corridors submission packet. This packet must be downloaded and completed using Adobe Acrobat to ensure all fillable features function properly. Applicants must provide detailed project proposals, including site information, compliance assurances, and technical specifications. WisDOT also offered a public webinar to guide applicants through the application process and clarify requirements. Additionally, a formal question and answer period was provided to address applicant inquiries, with responses compiled into a public document. The application timeline for this funding opportunity began with the release of the RFP on May 26, 2026. A formal comment period was open until June 14, 2026, allowing prospective applicants to seek clarification. A public informational webinar was scheduled for June 9, 2026. The final application deadline is July 24, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. WisDOT reserves the right to modify the RFP and awarding process as needed. Following submission, proposals will be evaluated based on alignment with program goals, geographic priorities, compliance readiness, and cost effectiveness, although specific scoring criteria are not detailed in the provided materials. The WEVI program is part of a broader, multi-phase initiative and is expected to continue beyond this round. Wisconsin’s long-term plan includes achieving full build-out of designated corridors and then expanding infrastructure to additional routes and high-demand areas. Future funding rounds will likely continue to prioritize gap-filling, economic development, and equitable access to EV charging infrastructure across the state.

Ensure full compliance with federal requirements; align projects with priority corridors; demonstrate cost efficiency and geographic impact