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Equity Impact Assessment
For Unity Fleet's "The Link" EV Charging Network
Executive Summary
This Equity Impact Assessment (EIA) provides a comprehensive analysis of how Unity Fleet's "The Link" EV Charging Network will affect different demographic groups in the target rural Illinois communities. The assessment examines potential equity impacts across multiple dimensions including access, economic opportunity, environmental justice, and community engagement. It identifies both positive equity outcomes and potential equity challenges, with specific strategies to maximize benefits for historically underserved populations.
The assessment finds that "The Link" EV Charging Network has significant potential to advance equity in rural Illinois communities through strategic infrastructure placement, inclusive workforce development, targeted economic opportunities, and thoughtful community engagement. By implementing the recommended equity enhancement strategies, Unity Fleet can ensure that the benefits of clean transportation infrastructure are distributed equitably across all community segments, with particular attention to historically marginalized populations.
This EIA demonstrates Unity Fleet's commitment to equity as a core value and provides OE3 grant reviewers with confidence that the project will advance the program's equity objectives. The assessment establishes a framework for ongoing equity monitoring and continuous improvement throughout project implementation.
Equity Assessment Methodology
Assessment Framework
This EIA employs a structured methodology to systematically analyze potential equity impacts:
- Demographic Analysis: Examination of population characteristics in target communities with particular attention to historically underserved groups
- Stakeholder Engagement: Consultation with diverse community representatives to understand equity concerns and opportunities
- Multi-dimensional Analysis: Assessment of impacts across access, economic, environmental, and social dimensions
- Distributional Analysis: Evaluation of how benefits and potential burdens are distributed across population groups
- Mitigation Planning: Development of strategies to address identified equity challenges
- Enhancement Strategies: Identification of opportunities to maximize positive equity outcomes
- Monitoring Framework: Establishment of metrics and processes for ongoing equity impact tracking
Equity Dimensions Assessed
The assessment examines equity impacts across these key dimensions:
- Access Equity: Equitable distribution of and access to charging infrastructure and services
- Economic Equity: Fair distribution of economic benefits including jobs, business opportunities, and cost savings
- Environmental Equity: Equitable distribution of environmental benefits and avoidance of disproportionate environmental burdens
- Procedural Equity: Inclusive decision-making processes and meaningful community engagement
- Generational Equity: Consideration of long-term impacts and benefits for future generations
- Geographic Equity: Balanced distribution of benefits across the service territory
- Cultural Equity: Respect for and inclusion of diverse cultural perspectives and needs
Data Sources
This assessment draws on multiple data sources:
Demographic Data:
- U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data
- Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity community profiles
- County and municipal demographic reports
- CDFI Investment Area designations
Economic Data:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics employment data
- County-level economic indicators
- Industry sector analysis for target communities
- Local workforce development board reports
Environmental Data:
- EPA EJSCREEN environmental justice mapping tool
- Illinois EPA environmental quality data
- Transportation emissions data
- Energy burden data by census tract
Community Input:
- Stakeholder interviews with community representatives
- Focus groups with diverse community members
- Consultation with community-based organizations
- Public meeting feedback
Community Demographic Analysis
Target Community Profiles
The five target communities for "The Link" EV Charging Network represent diverse rural and small-town contexts in Central Illinois:
Decatur
| Demographic Factor | Data | Comparison to State Average |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 70,522 | N/A |
| Median Household Income | $43,594 | 40% below state average |
| Poverty Rate | 22.1% | 10.2 percentage points above state average |
| Unemployment Rate | 8.7% | 3.5 percentage points above state average |
| Black/African American | 23.2% | 8.9 percentage points above state average |
| Hispanic/Latino | 2.1% | 15.4 percentage points below state average |
| Persons with Disabilities | 16.8% | 5.1 percentage points above state average |
| No Vehicle Households | 11.3% | 3.6 percentage points above state average |
| CDFI Investment Area | Yes | Qualifies under income and unemployment criteria |
Taylorville
| Demographic Factor | Data | Comparison to State Average |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 10,506 | N/A |
| Median Household Income | $46,894 | 35% below state average |
| Poverty Rate | 16.4% | 4.5 percentage points above state average |
| Unemployment Rate | 7.2% | 2.0 percentage points above state average |
| Black/African American | 1.3% | 13.0 percentage points below state average |
| Hispanic/Latino | 1.8% | 15.7 percentage points below state average |
| Persons with Disabilities | 18.2% | 6.5 percentage points above state average |
| No Vehicle Households | 8.7% | 1.0 percentage points above state average |
| CDFI Investment Area | Yes | Qualifies under income criteria |
Pana
| Demographic Factor | Data | Comparison to State Average |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,614 | N/A |
| Median Household Income | $40,221 | 44% below state average |
| Poverty Rate | 19.8% | 7.9 percentage points above state average |
| Unemployment Rate | 8.1% | 2.9 percentage points above state average |
| Black/African American | 0.7% | 13.6 percentage points below state average |
| Hispanic/Latino | 1.2% | 16.3 percentage points below state average |
| Persons with Disabilities | 19.5% | 7.8 percentage points above state average |
| No Vehicle Households | 9.2% | 1.5 percentage points above state average |
| CDFI Investment Area | Yes | Qualifies under income and unemployment criteria |
Mattoon
| Demographic Factor | Data | Comparison to State Average |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 17,282 | N/A |
| Median Household Income | $42,305 | 41% below state average |
| Poverty Rate | 20.3% | 8.4 percentage points above state average |
| Unemployment Rate | 7.8% | 2.6 percentage points above state average |
| Black/African American | 4.2% | 10.1 percentage points below state average |
| Hispanic/Latino | 2.5% | 15.0 percentage points below state average |
| Persons with Disabilities | 17.9% | 6.2 percentage points above state average |
| No Vehicle Households | 10.1% | 2.4 percentage points above state average |
| CDFI Investment Area | Yes | Qualifies under income and unemployment criteria |
Effingham
| Demographic Factor | Data | Comparison to State Average |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,604 | N/A |
| Median Household Income | $52,784 | 27% below state average |
| Poverty Rate | 12.1% | 0.2 percentage points above state average |
| Unemployment Rate | 5.3% | 0.1 percentage points above state average |
| Black/African American | 0.5% | 13.8 percentage points below state average |
| Hispanic/Latino | 1.9% | 15.6 percentage points below state average |
| Persons with Disabilities | 14.2% | 2.5 percentage points above state average |
| No Vehicle Households | 6.8% | 0.9 percentage points below state average |
| CDFI Investment Area | Yes | Qualifies under income criteria |
Key Demographic Insights
Analysis of the demographic data reveals several important equity considerations:
Economic Vulnerability: All five communities have median household incomes significantly below the state average (27-44% lower) and higher poverty rates, indicating economic vulnerability that could affect EV adoption and access to clean transportation benefits.
Racial and Ethnic Composition: The communities have varying racial compositions, with Decatur having a significant Black/African American population (23.2%) while the other communities are predominantly white with minimal racial diversity. All communities have Hispanic/Latino populations well below the state average.
Disability Prevalence: All communities have higher-than-average populations of persons with disabilities, requiring particular attention to accessibility in infrastructure design and services.
Transportation Access: Higher-than-average percentages of households without vehicles in all communities except Effingham indicate transportation vulnerability and potential for transportation equity improvements.
CDFI Investment Areas: All five communities qualify as CDFI Investment Areas, confirming their status as underserved communities and alignment with OE3 program priorities.
Rural Isolation: The smaller communities (Pana, Taylorville) face additional challenges related to rural isolation and limited transportation options, creating potential for significant impact from improved mobility infrastructure.
Equity Impact Analysis
Access Equity
Positive Impacts
Geographic Distribution: The strategic placement of charging infrastructure in five communities creates a corridor of access across rural Central Illinois, addressing "charging deserts" in areas currently underserved by EV infrastructure.
Multiple Charging Options: The inclusion of both DC fast charging and Level 2 charging provides options for different user needs and vehicle types, increasing accessibility across income levels.
Accessibility Design: All charging stations will be designed to exceed ADA requirements, with features such as accessible charging ports, clear pathways, appropriate height controls, and adequate lighting to serve users with disabilities.
Payment Flexibility: Multiple payment options including credit card, mobile app, and RFID cards ensure access for users regardless of banking status or smartphone ownership.
24/7 Availability: Round-the-clock access to charging infrastructure ensures availability for shift workers and those with non-traditional schedules, who are often from lower-income households.
Potential Challenges
Digital Divide: Reliance on mobile apps and digital interfaces for optimal user experience may create barriers for older adults, those with limited digital literacy, or those without reliable internet access.
EV Ownership Barriers: The higher upfront cost of electric vehicles may limit direct benefits to higher-income residents unless specifically addressed through complementary programs.
Language Barriers: Standard English-only interfaces could create access challenges for non-English speakers or those with limited English proficiency.
Knowledge Gaps: Unfamiliarity with EV charging technology may create psychological barriers to use, particularly among older residents or those with limited exposure to new technologies.
Enhancement Strategies
Digital Access Support:
- Implement simple, intuitive user interfaces with minimal steps
- Provide clear printed instructions at charging stations
- Offer telephone support option with live assistance
- Install on-site help buttons with direct communication
EV Access Programs:
- Partner with community organizations to develop EV ride-share or community vehicle programs
- Implement EV education and exposure events in underserved neighborhoods
- Explore used EV incentive programs for lower-income residents
- Develop relationships with EV manufacturers for community discount programs
Inclusive Communication:
- Provide multilingual interfaces and instructions (English and Spanish at minimum)
- Use universal symbols and visual guides where possible
- Implement text-to-speech options for visually impaired users
- Create simple how-to videos accessible via QR codes at stations
Community Ambassadors:
- Train local residents as EV charging ambassadors to provide peer support
- Schedule regular demonstration events at charging locations
- Develop "EV buddy" program pairing experienced users with newcomers
- Create community recognition program for frequent users who assist others
Economic Equity
Positive Impacts
Job Creation: The project will create approximately 12 full-time equivalent positions across the five communities, with intentional hiring from local workforce and emphasis on opportunities for underemployed residents.
Workforce Development: Comprehensive training programs will provide valuable skills in emerging clean energy and transportation technologies, creating career pathways in growing industries.
Local Business Support: Strategic placement of charging infrastructure near local businesses will drive customer traffic and spending, particularly benefiting small businesses in downtown areas.
Cost Savings: As EV adoption increases, residents will benefit from lower transportation costs through reduced fuel and maintenance expenses, with particular benefit to moderate-income households with longer commutes.
Property Value Enhancement: Infrastructure improvements and clean energy installations can positively impact property values in surrounding areas, potentially building community wealth.
Potential Challenges
Job Access Barriers: Without intentional strategies, new jobs might not reach the most economically vulnerable residents due to skills gaps, awareness, or hiring practices.
Uneven Business Benefits: Benefits to local businesses could be concentrated among establishments closest to charging stations unless specifically managed for broader impact.
Wealth Gap Reinforcement: If EV adoption primarily occurs among higher-income residents, transportation cost savings could disproportionately benefit those already economically advantaged.
Contractor Diversity: Without specific measures, contracting opportunities during construction and implementation might not reach minority-owned or disadvantaged businesses.
Displacement Concerns: Property value increases could potentially contribute to affordability challenges in some neighborhoods if not managed thoughtfully.
Enhancement Strategies
Targeted Hiring and Training:
- Establish specific hiring goals for low-income residents, people of color, and other underrepresented groups
- Partner with local workforce development boards to create pipelines from disadvantaged communities
- Implement paid training programs with stipends to enable participation by economically vulnerable residents
- Develop apprenticeship programs with clear pathways to permanent employment
Business Inclusion Strategies:
- Create "EV Destination" marketing program for businesses throughout each community, not just those adjacent to charging stations
- Develop special promotion programs for minority-owned and disadvantaged businesses
- Implement digital wayfinding to direct charging users to diverse local businesses
- Create "community showcase" opportunities at charging hubs for rotating local business promotion
*Inclusive EV Access (Content truncated due to size limit. Use line ranges to read in chunks)