Pierce Transit Public Electric Vehicle Charging Station Policy

1. Purpose

This policy aims to establish comprehensive guidelines for the use, operation, and management of public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at the Spanaway Transit Center. This policy ensures the charging stations are used efficiently, safely, and sustainably, maximizing benefits to the community while supporting Pierce Transit’s commitment to reducing emissions and promoting sustainable transportation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all users of the public EV charging stations at the Spanaway Transit Center, including Pierce Transit staff, contractors, and the general public.

3. Definitions

  • EV (Electric Vehicle): A vehicle powered entirely or partially by electricity.
  • Charging Station: A publicly accessible point where EVs can be charged.
  • User: Any individual or entity utilizing the charging station.
  • Spanaway Transit Center: The location where the public EV charging stations are installed.

4. General Policy

4.1 Usage

  • The charging stations are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Users must comply with all posted signs, instructions, and safety guidelines at the charging station.
  • Charging is limited to EVs only. Non-electric vehicles parked in charging station spots are subject to towing at the owner’s expense.
  • Users should not leave their vehicle unattended for extended periods while charging and must move their vehicle promptly once charging is complete to allow others to use the station.

4.2 Fees and Payment

  • Users are required to pay for the electricity consumed during charging.
  • Payment methods include credit/debit card, mobile payment apps, or any other methods specified by Pierce Transit.
  • Pierce Transit reserves the right to adjust charging fees based on operational costs, demand, and other relevant factors.
  • Fees will be displayed at each charging station and on Pierce Transit’s website.

4.3 Time Limits

  • Charging station parking is limited to a maximum of 10 hours per charging session to ensure availability for other users.
  • Vehicles left beyond the allowed time will incur additional fees or be subject to towing. Additional fees will be communicated to users.

4.4 Safety and Conduct

  • Users must follow all safety guidelines and procedures when using the charging stations.
  • Any damage to the charging station or associated equipment must be reported to Pierce Transit immediately.
  • Pierce Transit is not responsible for any damage or theft to vehicles or property while using the charging stations.
  • Users are encouraged to familiarize themselves with best practices for EV charging, including efficient charging habits and proper care of charging equipment.

4.5 Maintenance and Downtime

  • Pierce Transit will ensure regular maintenance and inspections of the charging stations to maintain functionality and safety.
  • Users will be notified of any scheduled downtime or maintenance activities in advance, whenever possible.
  • In the event of unplanned downtime, Pierce Transit will make efforts to restore service as quickly as possible and communicate the status to users.

4.6 Sustainability and Environmental Goals

  • The operation of the charging stations aligns with Pierce Transit’s sustainability goals, which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote the use of clean energy.
  • Data on the usage and environmental impact of the charging stations will be collected and analyzed to support ongoing sustainability efforts.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

5.1 Pierce Transit

  • Installation and Maintenance: Responsible for installing, maintaining, and regularly inspecting the charging stations to ensure they meet safety and operational standards.
  • Customer Support: Customer support will be provided to address any issues or inquiries related to the charging stations. Support will be available via phone, email, and on-site staff.
  • Policy Review: This policy will be reviewed and updated as needed to reflect changing needs, technologies, and user feedback.
  • Sustainability Reporting: Monitoring and reporting on the environmental impact of the charging stations, including reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

5.2 Users

  • Compliance: Complying with all terms and conditions outlined in this policy.
  • Payment: Ensuring timely payment for charging services using the accepted methods.
  • Safety: Adhering to all safety guidelines and reporting any issues or damage immediately.
  • Proper Use: Utilize the charging stations responsibly and move their vehicle once charging is complete to maximize availability for other users.
  • User Education: Engaging with educational materials provided by Pierce Transit on best practices for EV charging and environmental benefits.

6. Accessibility

  • Charging stations will be designed and maintained to ensure accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities.
  • Clear signage and assistance will be provided as needed to ensure the charging stations are usable by all community members.
  • Feedback on accessibility will be actively sought and used to make improvements.

7. Emergency Procedures

  • In case of an emergency or malfunction, users should immediately contact Pierce Transit customer support or emergency services if necessary. Contact information will be prominently displayed at each charging station.
  • Pierce Transit will provide emergency response training to relevant staff to handle incidents promptly and effectively.

8. Enforcement

  • Non-compliance with this policy may result in fines, towing of the vehicle, or suspension of charging privileges. Specific fines and enforcement procedures will be communicated to users.
  • Pierce Transit reserves the right to take appropriate action to enforce this policy and ensure the smooth operation of the charging stations.
  • Complaints and disputes regarding enforcement will be handled by Pierce Transit’s customer service team, with an appeals process available for users.

9. Policy Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to accommodate technological advancements, user feedback and operational needs. Changes to the policy will be communicated to users through Pierce Transit’s website, email notifications and on-site postings.

Approval and Contact Information

Approved By: Adam Davis

Title: Chief Maintenance Officer

Date: 5/16/2025

Contact Information: If you have questions or concerns about this policy, please contact Pierce Transit at 253.581.8000 or HR@piercetransit.org

Conclusion

This policy aims to provide clear and concise guidelines to ensure the effective and efficient use of Pierce Transit’s public EV charging stations, supporting our commitment to sustainability, community service and accessibility.