Des Plaines hosts kickoff for fourth round of regional EV Readiness Program

The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus launched the fourth round of its Electric Vehicle Readiness Program, gathering municipalities committed to enhancing EV adoption and infrastructure throughout the Chicago region.

The Fourth Cohort Kickoff Meeting was held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 12, at Des Plaines City Hall. Mayor Andrew Goczkowski opened the session, welcoming attendees and emphasizing the City of Des Plaines’ commitment to sustainability and collaboration.

Participants included representatives from Brookfield, Deerfield, Downers Grove, Grayslake, Hanover Park, Northbrook, Pingree Grove, Riverwoods, Streamwood, Winnetka, and Woodridge. These communities joined a growing network of local governments focused on overcoming barriers to EV growth through streamlined permitting, updated zoning and parking codes, staff training, and community engagement.

Launched in 2022, the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus EV Readiness Program has provided municipalities free technical assistance and guidance to earn the designation of “EV Ready Community.” This initiative supports the goals of the Greenest Region Compact, adopted by Des Plaines in 2021, and requires a demonstrated local commitment to long-term sustainability.

With the kickoff completed, participating communities are now moving forward to ensure residents and businesses are ready for the future of electric vehicles while boosting regional collaboration on climate action.

Learn more mayorscaucus.org/initiatives/environment/becoming-ev-ready.