Montgomery County Installs EV Charging Wayfinding Signs

Have you seen the blue signs on highways that direct travelers to electric vehicle charging stations? They have a symbol that looks like a gas pump but with a plug instead of a nozzle and the letters “EV” on it.

These wayfinding signs help alert EV drivers of “refueling” services just like the signs notifying drivers of gas and diesel stations at an upcoming exit. These alternative fueling station signs also help create public awareness of the existence of EV charging stations. This helps people feel more comfortable about purchasing a plug-in electric vehicle.

Montgomery County Maryland Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is initiating a program to install EV charging wayfinding signs in Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton. MCDOT plans 42 wayfinding signs in and around public parking facilities that currently have EV charging stations. See: Montgomery County Adds EV Charging to Five More Garages

Standardized Signs Based on Federal MUTCD Standards

The goal is to assist EV owners to locate charging stations and to make the public aware of the County’s charging infrastructure. The signs are based on the D9-11b standard general services sign. These are approved by the Federal Highway Administration in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).

MCDOT Director Chris Conklin says, “Letting the public know that these charging stations are available is important to encourage the use of electric vehicles.” Montgomery County has committed to a zero-emissions goal by 2035.

20 Level 2 Charging Stations in MCDOT Parking Facilities

There are 20 public Level 2 charging stations in parking facilities supported by MCDOT Division of Parking Management. These charging stations in Bethesda, Silver Spring, and Wheaton cost $0.13 per kWh. There is a four-hour limit for the charging spaces which are designated for electric vehicle charging only. See: Montgomery County Updates EV Charging Signs

Visit the MCDOT Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program page for more information and a map of their electric vehicle charging stations.