Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at Samaki

Following the recent launch of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Everett, United Hub has unveiled its second EV charging site. 

On February 6, 2026, representatives from the Washington State Department of Commerce, Seattle City Light, Seattle Department of Neighborhoods, and project partners United Hub, InterimCDA, PortFi, and Andrew’s Electric, gathered at Samaki Commons Apartments to celebrate the ribbon-cutting for the newly installed EV charging stations. 

The charging stations will serve residents of the affordable multi-family apartment community, expanding access to clean transportation infrastructure and supporting Washington’s broader sustainability and electrification goals.

The new chargers, a partnership between United Hub and InterimCDA, were made possible through funding from the Washington Electric Vehicle Charging Program (WAEVCP), along with incentives from Seattle City Light’s Multifamily EV Charging Program.

The event marked the official opening of the EV charging stations, which are now available to residents. The project represents a significant investment in clean transportation infrastructure while directly supporting residents of affordable housing by expanding access to convenient and cost-effective EV charging. 

Investing in Equity and Sustainability

This charging station project represents a major step forward in expanding access to clean transportation options for all residents, regardless of income level. 

The Washington Climate Commitment Act allocates funding for electrification and clean transportation infrastructure across Washington, helping communities install EV charging stations in residential and public locations. In addition, Seattle City Light’s Multifamily EV Charging Program provides rebates that lower installation costs for properties like this one, making projects such as this financially viable. 

It is also part of United Hub’s mission to empower underserved communities, particularly within Asian communities. The organization prioritizes renewable energy solutions to address environmental challenges and support communities in adapting to a changing economy. 

“EV charging opens a whole new world to the residents! It’s something they’ve asked for and helps them access the benefits of EV,” said Julie Neilson, Asset Manager at InterimCDA.

Community Collaboration

The project was made possible through the collaboration of Washington State Department of Commerce, Seattle City Light, United Hub, Interim CDA, PortFi and Andrew’s Electric.

United Hub, under the leadership of President Winston Lee and CEO Qiong Chen, was overjoyed to find opportunities to contribute to the community.

PortFi, the equipment provider, and Andrew’s Electric, the electrical installer, are both certified as Minority Business Enterprises (MBE). United Hub was delighted to partner with local small businesses.

Yilun, founder of PortFi, expressed pride in supporting the project. PortFi incorporates a variety of innovations in its technology and business model.

Andrew, owner of Andrew’s Electric, prioritizes environmental sustainability. As an electrician, he enjoyed providing energy-efficient solutions to his customers.

“This is a wonderful project, so much collaboration and lessons learned,” said Mara MacDonell, Washington State Department of Commerce’s contract manager for United Hub.

Thomas Boydell, Senior Program Manager at United Hub, emphasized that the team’s collaborative efforts successfully addressed complex challenges and funding issues.

At the ceremony, Winston Lee, President of United Hub, and Mara MacDonell, Program Manager at Washington State Department of Commerce, demonstrated the use of the EV charging stations.

Project Highlights

• Housing type: Affordable multi-family apartments

• EV charging stations installed: 4 Level 2 (L2) chargers

• Funding support: Washington Electric Vehicle Charging Program (WAEVCP) fund and Seattle City Light Multifamily EV Charging Program

Looking Ahead

The EV charging stations are now fully operational and open for use, giving residents convenient access to modern transportation infrastructure. The project highlights how investments in EV charging can support affordable housing, reduce emissions, and enhance residents’ quality of life.

After the ceremony, attendees stayed briefly to discuss future opportunities in EV charging, including Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), the Washington Electric Vehicle Charging Program (WAEVCP) Round 2, and Seattle City Light Public Charging Incentive Program.