Greenville receives $500,000 CDBG grant for electric vehicle development

The City of Greenville has received a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant or CDBG to fund water and sewer infrastructure for electric vehicle travel development along Interstate 65. 

Dubbed "The Switchyard" the project is being led by Switchyard Management LLC in Atlanta, GA and will provide shopping, dining and entertainment options at EV charging stations.

“This development will provide a place for electric vehicle owners to enjoy while they charge their vehicles, and it will enable the city of Greenville and surrounding areas to highlight their unique offerings and foster local commerce,” said Gov. Kay Ivey in an online announcement. “I am pleased to award this grant.”

The Switchyard is reportedly the first in Alabama and will employ 12 people. It will be placed "strategically" near the highway for travelers going to beaches and other destinations. 

Measuring 3,000-square-feet it will include retail and dining options such as the local Priester’s Pecans, Conecuh Sausage, Bates House of Turkey and other venues.

The facility is set to feature hyper-charged, fast charge EV bays and pull-though bays for electric vehicles with trailers. The city is providing $452,300 in matching funds. 

“This development fits right in line with efforts to increase the availability of EV chargers along major travel corridors for those who choose to use this method of travel,” Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) Director Kenneth Boswell said. “I commend the city of Greenville and all those who envisioned this project as a benefit to the city.”