Each October’s designation as National Drive Electric Month is a timely reminder that how we move matters — for our air, our climate, and our health. In Columbia, transportation is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, so shifting toward cleaner options is one of the most powerful ways residents can make a difference. The City has already begun building toward that future through projects outlined in the Columbia Climate Action & Adaptation Plan.
Electric Vehicles: What’s Available & What’s Next
Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) can drive down your carbon footprint and reduce fuel costs over time. Columbia is supporting that shift by expanding EV charging stations, including recent projects funded through a federal grant for locations such as two downtown parking garages, the public library, and the regional airport. The City is also integrating EVs into its municipal fleet and Go COMO bus system as part of its climate commitments.
At the federal level, incentives are still available — but only for a limited time. Federal EV tax credits and rebates can help reduce the upfront cost of purchasing a new or used EV, but some programs are set to expire this year.
Join Columbia Water & Light in increasing electric vehicle (EV) adoption in Columbia by adding an EV charger at your home or adding 240-volt outlets in your new construction projects! Learn more here!
Be a part of Drive Electric Month and take these next steps:
Explore EV options and see if you qualify for a federal tax credit or rebate before it expires.
Locate public charging stations around Columbia and plan routes to make EV travel more convenient.
Still not convinced? Check out our past CoMo climate action blog debunking common EV myths.
If you already drive an EV, maximize your use of new charging infrastructure coming online.
If an EV Isn’t Right for You — Try These Alternatives
Even if you can’t switch to an EV just yet, there are still cleaner, healthier ways to travel than by a traditional gas vehicle. From walking and biking to public transit and carpooling, these options reduce emissions and can save time and money.
Transit with Go COMO
Columbia’s public bus service, Go COMO, offers affordable, accessible transportation that helps reduce traffic and pollution. Taking transit also adds natural activity to your day by incorporating short walks to and from stops.
View Go COMO routes and schedules.
Combine bus travel with biking — all buses have bike racks.
Support service expansion by participating in public feedback sessions.
Walking, Biking & Safe Streets
Columbia has 141 miles of painted bike lanes and 62 miles of trails that make it easier to walk or bike for short trips. The City is also updating its Complete Streets policy to ensure roads are safe for everyone — pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders, and drivers.
Get involved in shaping the Complete Streets update by attending community meetings or sharing feedback.
Volunteer for local efforts like street audits or trail cleanups.
Carpooling & Commuter Incentives
Even occasional carpooling helps reduce emissions and save money. Coordinating rides with friends, neighbors, or coworkers also builds connections within the community.
Find local carpool groups and commuter resources through Local Motion.
Ask your employer about commuter incentives, like parking benefits or pre-tax transit savings.
Participate in Week Without Driving
Local Motion’s Week Without Driving encourages residents to try alternative transportation for a week. This annual challenge is a great way to explore walking, biking, and transit options while discovering the benefits of a car-light lifestyle.
Sign up for the challenge and track your trips.
Share your experience to inspire others to rethink their commute.
Moving Forward (Sustainably!)
Transportation is central to Columbia’s Climate Action & Adaptation Plan. Every trip you take — or avoid by choosing a cleaner mode — moves our community closer to its climate goals.
By participating in National Drive Electric Month, exploring sustainable transportation options, and joining community events like Week Without Driving, you can help shape a cleaner, healthier future for Columbia.
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