Drive Clean Colorado is proud to celebrate the City of Northglenn as a leader in Colorado’s clean transportation movement, earning recognition for its innovative programs and commitment to sustainability. The city has made significant strides in expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging access, not only by growing its EV infrastructure but also by integrating clean mobility practices across city operations.
Notably, this fall, the City of Northglenn earned Gold designation in the Charging Smart program, led by Mara Owen. They became the first community in Colorado—and only one of few nationwide—to reach this milestone. Charging Smart, led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) in partnership with Drive Clean Colorado and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Office, provided no-cost technical assistance and a clear roadmap for communities to accelerate EV readiness.
To achieve gold status, Northglenn made tangible progress in expanding EV charging access, including the installation of 16 chargers across 5 locations, providing a total of 31 ports for public and fleet use. These upgrades were supported by Charge Ahead Colorado (CAC) and Fleet-ZERO grants through the Colorado Energy Office, ensuring reliable charging options for residents, businesses, and city operations alike. 
Beyond infrastructure, Northglenn also adopted an EV-ready ordinance, established standard approval timelines for EV charging installations, completed a comprehensive fleet analysis, and implemented numerous other initiatives. These actions not only improve accessibility and convenience for EV drivers but also contribute to direct reductions in emissions and improved air quality, earning recognition from peers.
Additionally, in 2025, Northglenn was honored with the Local Government Clean Air Champion Award from the Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC), highlighting the city’s dedication to cleaner air and advancing sustainable transportation. You can also catch a glimpse of the city’s proactive environmental efforts in Northglenn Takes Action for Clean Air.
“Drive Clean Colorado is proud to celebrate Northglenn’s Gold designation and its leadership as the first Colorado municipality to achieve Gold in the Charging Smart program,” said Jenna Wyatt, Program Manager at Drive Clean Colorado. “As a longtime member of DCC, it was an honor to have Northglenn join our first cohort. Month after month, we were inspired by the dedication, effort, and vision required to achieve Gold designation. Northglenn should feel a deep sense of pride and accomplishment for all they’ve done for their community”
Looking ahead, Northglenn continues to explore opportunities to expand its clean transportation initiatives. With strong partnerships and community engagement, the city is well positioned to advance Colorado’s broader goals for EV adoption, cleaner air, and healthier communities.
Due to funding changes, the Charging Smart program is currently not accepting new communities for designation or technical assistance. However, Drive Clean Colorado remains committed to accelerating equitable adoption of clean transportation. For information on funding opportunities and technical assistance, please contact Jenna Wyatt.