Since 2023, the City of Fitchburg has taken steps to reduce its carbon footprint by transitioning to an electric vehicle (EV) fleet. In a news release from her office, Mayor Julia Arata-Fratta said as part of the city’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term sustainability, electrifying our municipal vehicles has been one of her top priorities as mayor.
She said the move not only lowers fuel and maintenance costs but also “demonstrates our city’s leadership in adopting cleaner, smarter infrastructure.”
“Electrifying our fleet supports the goals outlined in Fitchburg’s Sustainability Plan, which emphasizes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and investing in long-term environmental solutions,” she said. “Transitioning to electric vehicles is more than a technological shift—it’s a statement about the kind of future we want to build for Fitchburg. One that is sustainable, forward-thinking, and resilient.”
Since 2023, the city has increased its EV fleet to 10 vehicles. Earlier this year, Fitchburg purchased three additional electric sedans for the Inspection and Assessment Departments, and four new electric Ford pick trucks for the Public Works Department and one hybrid van for multi-purpose use.
This initiative was made possible in part through use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which covered the cost of electric vehicles and the installation of EV charging stations at municipal facilities.
“These investments build on the city’s earlier fleet upgrades and reflect our clear commitment to clean transportation alternatives,” Arata-Fratta said. “By leveraging federal funding, we’ve been able to enhance city services while promoting cleaner, more efficient technologies—without placing an additional burden on local taxpayers.”
She said the progress aligns with the City Council’s adoption of a resolution that builds upon the city’s longstanding commitment to sustainability. The resolution aims to source 25% of the city’s municipal energy from renewable sources by 2025 and achieve 100% renewable electricity for city operations by 2030.
Fitchburg is also positioned to benefit from the federal $7,500 direct payment rebate per electric vehicle, which helps offset upfront costs.
“However, with recent uncertainty in federal policy and discussions about removing this tax credit for local governments, we remain hopeful that these rebates will remain in place and accessible,” Arata-Fratta said. “Retaining these incentives is critical for municipalities like ours to continue making smart, sustainable investments. We will continue to seek opportunities to align our operations with our environmental values, explore grant funding opportunities, and integrate sustainability into all levels of city government.
“Every investment in clean energy today brings us closer to a healthier tomorrow.”
Source: https://www.fitchburgstar.com/
