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Transportation

Highland Park is working to reduce vehicle emissions in its own fleet, and to enable residents to travel conveniently and safely on foot and by bike. The City of Highland Park's current goal is to decrease household vehicle miles traveled to 50% below 2008 levels by 2030.

Walking and Biking
Adopted in October 2020, the MoveHP Plan  is a 5-year update to Bike-Walk HP 2030, Highland Park’s non-motorized transportation plan. MoveHP envisions the development of a comprehensive and connected non-motorized transportation system. It proposes that the City of Highland Park plan for improvements to the City’s street and transportation system that will serve all transportation users: cyclists, pedestrians, transit users and drivers, regardless of age or ability. The Plan aims to provide each user with improved, more enjoyable, and safer access to local and regional destinations.

The central business district is only a 15-minute bike ride away from nearly every address in Highland Park.  At an average pace, it should take an hour or less to bike from one side of the city to the other.  If you have a bike, consider setting yourself a personal challenge to replace at least one local errand per month with a bike ride rather than a car drive.  Visit our biking page to learn more. 

Low-Emission Vehicles
Gasoline-hybrid vehicles have grown in popularity since their introduction to the market in the early 2000s.  Consumers now have scores of choices for these and other fuel-efficient vehicles.  Due to the phased increase in fleet efficiency requirements (CAFE standards), auto manufacturers are actively introducing all-electric (EV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) electric vehicles; EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions and PHEVs produce significantly less than conventional vehicles.  Electric vehicles often have a higher initial purchase price, but studies have shown that the total cost of ownership is lower than a conventional vehicle due to lower rates for electricity vs. gas, and less routine maintenance (i.e., no oil changes!)

There are many actions you can take to reduce your vehicle emissions, reduce the nation's dependence on oil and save money by following the tips on this page from the Environmental Protection Agency website.
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Electric Vehicles
The United States Department of Energy has created a website that provides information on electric vehicles, current and upcoming models, a tool to compare vehicles, and federal tax incentives associated with the purchase of an electric vehicle. 
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Locations of Electric Vehicle Charge Stations
The City of Highland Park has a dual electric vehicle charge station located in the Port Clinton Garage, 600 Central Avenue Highland Park, IL. 60035 (southwest corner of the upper parking garage). This station was sponsored in part by the Highland Park Ford Lincoln Dealership and Windfree Wind and Solar Energy Company. To learn about more locations the United States Department of Energy provides a map of the electric vehicle charge stations.
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Electric Vehicle and Alternative Fuel Incentives
There are currently several financial incentives available for individuals who purchase an electric vehicle.
Federal Incentives
State Incentives
EV Charge Station

Alternative Fuel Calculators
There are several ways to reduce your impact on the environment by driving a more fuel-efficient vehicle. These calculators can be used to help move in a more sustainable direction.
Petroleum Reduction Planning Tool
Fuel Savings Calculator
Vehicle Cost Calculator