Broken Burlingame EV chargers to be replaced

While the chargers are nonfunctional, visitors to the Broadway District will be able to use the parking spaces for free, though construction may render them unserviceable at points. 

The technology in the existing chargers, installed five years ago, has become obsolete, Michael said. Rather than replacing parts in the existing stations, EVgo decided to simply replace the machines altogether. 

“They realized the issues, and Burlingame is not the only location with outdated equipment,” Michael said. “It’s part of a bigger effort that they are prepared to address.” 

EVgo is a private company that entered into an agreement with the city, which does not pay for the chargers but allows EVgo to make money off of them when in use. The equipment switch is a continuing part of the company agreement with Burlingame, Michael said. 

“While we were frustrated earlier, we hope to continue this more positive communication,” she said.

John Kevranian, Broadway Burlingame Business Improvement District president, who has been an advocate for updates to the electric chargers, said the replacement effort is a boon for the community. Nearly one in every three or four drivers in the area is in an electric car, he said. 

“It’s utilized every day when they are functioning and maintained,” Kevranian said. “So many people in the last several weeks have said, ‘John, are the charging stations going to be repaired? We’re looking forward to it.’” 

It’s also a benefit to Burlingame renters, who are less likely to have electric vehicle charging stations at their apartment complexes, he added. 

“It’s great news for the community that uses the chargers, and also the business district,” he said.

The Broadway District replacement chargers aren’t Burlingame's only electric vehicle upgrades — three new stations with six parking spots for charging will likely be ready by the end of the month, Michael said.