# Alignment with Illinois Initiatives ## Introduction "The Link" EV Charging Network directly aligns with and advances key Illinois state initiatives related to transportation, climate action, economic development, and equity. This section details how our project supports and enhances these critical state priorities, positioning Illinois as a leader in clean transportation infrastructure. ## Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) The Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), signed into law in September 2021, established Illinois as a national leader in climate action and clean energy. "The Link" EV Charging Network directly supports several key components of this landmark legislation: ### Clean Transportation Goals CEJA set a target of 1 million electric vehicles on Illinois roads by 2030. "The Link" directly contributes to this goal by: - Addressing the critical charging infrastructure gap that currently limits EV adoption - Creating a network of convenient, reliable charging options that make EV ownership more practical - Providing subscription services that make EVs accessible to those who cannot afford to purchase them outright ### Renewable Energy Integration CEJA aims to transition Illinois to 100% clean energy by 2050. "The Link" supports this goal through: - On-site solar generation at each charging hub - Battery storage systems that optimize renewable energy usage - Grid integration that supports overall energy system stability - Demonstrating viable models for renewable energy in transportation ### Equity and Environmental Justice CEJA emphasizes equity and environmental justice in the clean energy transition. "The Link" addresses these priorities by: - Prioritizing hub locations in underserved communities - Creating the Community Access Program for low-income individuals - Establishing workforce development initiatives that create pathways to clean energy careers - Reducing local air pollution in communities historically burdened by transportation emissions ## Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) The Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program focuses on expanding travel choices and enhancing the transportation experience. "The Link" aligns with ITEP priorities through: ### Multimodal Transportation Support - Strategic hub locations that connect with public transit options - Facilities designed to accommodate various transportation modes - Integration with existing transportation networks - Support for first-mile/last-mile transportation solutions ### Community Livability - Creation of attractive, amenity-rich charging destinations - Enhancement of local business districts through increased foot traffic - Improvement of streetscapes around hub locations - Development of community gathering spaces within charging hubs ## Illinois Electric Vehicle Rebate Program The Illinois EPA's Electric Vehicle Rebate Program provides financial incentives for EV adoption. "The Link" complements this program by: ### Infrastructure Support for Rebate Recipients - Providing the necessary charging infrastructure for new EV owners - Offering educational resources about EV ownership and benefits - Creating a supportive ecosystem for those transitioning to electric vehicles - Extending the impact of state rebate investments through enhanced EV usability ### Expanded Access Beyond Vehicle Ownership - Subscription services that extend EV access to those who may not qualify for rebates - Community programs that ensure rebate benefits reach underserved populations - Fleet services that help businesses leverage rebate programs for commercial vehicles - Educational initiatives that increase awareness of rebate availability ## Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan The $45 billion Rebuild Illinois capital plan represents the largest infrastructure investment in Illinois history. "The Link" aligns with this initiative by: ### Infrastructure Modernization - Building next-generation transportation infrastructure - Creating digital and physical assets that support economic growth - Developing facilities that will serve communities for decades - Establishing a model for public-private infrastructure partnerships ### Job Creation and Economic Development - Creating 25+ direct jobs in Year 1, scaling to 75+ by Year 3 - Generating indirect employment through supply chain development - Stimulating local economies through increased visitor traffic - Building workforce capacity in emerging clean energy sectors ## Illinois Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) The Illinois Department of Transportation's Long Range Transportation Plan outlines the state's vision for a multimodal transportation system. "The Link" supports several LRTP goals: ### Economy: Improve Illinois' Economy by Providing Transportation Infrastructure "The Link" contributes to economic development through: - Creation of jobs in construction, operations, and maintenance - Support for local businesses through increased customer traffic - Development of workforce skills in emerging technologies - Attraction of additional investment to hub communities ### Livability: Enhance Quality of Life by Ensuring Transportation Investments Advance Communities' Goals "The Link" enhances community livability by: - Creating attractive, multi-purpose facilities that serve as community assets - Reducing air and noise pollution through EV adoption - Providing amenities and services that benefit local residents - Supporting community goals for sustainability and innovation ### Mobility: Provide Transportation Choices to Support All Illinois Residents "The Link" expands transportation choices through: - Subscription services that provide alternatives to vehicle ownership - Support for EV adoption across diverse communities - Integration with existing transportation options - Accessibility features that ensure all residents can benefit ### Resilience: Proactively Assess, Plan, and Invest to Protect Transportation Infrastructure "The Link" contributes to system resilience through: - Distributed energy generation that supports grid stability - Climate-resilient design of charging infrastructure - Reduced dependence on fossil fuels for transportation - Adaptable technology that can evolve with changing needs ## REV Illinois (Reimagining Energy and Vehicles) The Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) Illinois program aims to position Illinois as a leader in the electric vehicle manufacturing ecosystem. "The Link" complements this initiative by: ### Supporting the EV Ecosystem - Creating the charging infrastructure necessary for widespread EV adoption - Demonstrating innovative approaches to EV charging and fleet management - Providing real-world testing environments for Illinois-manufactured EV components - Building consumer confidence in electric vehicle technology ### Workforce Development Alignment - Training workers in EV charging technology installation and maintenance - Creating career pathways in the clean transportation sector - Developing skills that support the broader EV manufacturing ecosystem - Partnering with educational institutions to build workforce capacity ## Illinois Competitive Freight Program The Illinois Competitive Freight Program aims to improve the efficiency and reliability of freight movement. "The Link" supports these goals by: ### Commercial Vehicle Electrification - Designing charging infrastructure to accommodate light commercial vehicles - Future-proofing hubs for medium and heavy-duty vehicle charging - Supporting the transition of delivery fleets to electric vehicles - Reducing emissions from commercial transportation ### Freight Corridor Enhancement - Strategic placement of hubs along key freight corridors - Support for last-mile delivery electrification - Reduction of congestion through optimized charging and fleet management - Integration with existing freight infrastructure ## Conclusion "The Link" EV Charging Network is strategically aligned with Illinois' most important transportation, climate, and economic development initiatives. By supporting state goals for EV adoption, renewable energy integration, equity, infrastructure modernization, and economic development, our project will help accelerate Illinois' transition to a clean transportation future while creating lasting economic benefits for communities across the state. Unity Fleet is committed to working closely with state agencies to ensure that "The Link" maximizes its contribution to these critical state priorities and helps position Illinois as a national leader in innovative, equitable transportation infrastructure.