Ohio has always been an innovator in transportation. Last week that continued as the Buckeye State celebrated the opening of the country’s first electric vehicle fast-charging station funded by the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program.

“Any industry that focuses on innovations for the future is a priority for Ohio,” Gov. Mike DeWine said Wednesday, according to a report by WANE. “Electric vehicles are the future of transportation, and we want drivers in Ohio to have access to this technology today.”

It is the first of many, but the charging station in the London Pilot Travel Center along Interstate 70 at U.S. 42 is truly groundbreaking. And, it is evidence of Ohio’s eagerness to be ahead of the curve as our transportation landscape evolves. Jumping on the proposal process so quickly put Ohio in line for an advantage in getting the equipment and technicians needed to install the stations. The rest of the first round of NEVI-funded charging stations across Ohio should be up and running by the end of 2024.

Ohio will get $140 million in NEVI funds over five years. The first round focused on interstates, but future rounds will fill in infrastructure gaps along major U.S. and state routes. The Ohio Department of Transportation is accepting proposals for the next round of funding through 1 p.m. on Jan. 25.

It is exciting news, and a reminder of how well Ohio has positioned itself to remain a leader not just in transportation, but in willingness to explore new ways to evolve and grow. Imagine the possibilities if such an attitude persists.