Denton's Sustainability Framework Advisory Committee made significant strides in promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption and enhancing transportation infrastructure during their recent meeting on July 25, 2025. The committee highlighted the city's current EV landscape, noting that Denton has registered 78 electric vehicles and 37 plug-in hybrids, with ongoing discussions about the impact of local, state, and federal incentives on these numbers.

The committee revealed that while many cities in Denton County offer similar incentives, Denton stands out with its city-sponsored rebate program, which could be influencing its EV adoption rates. A map presented during the meeting illustrated the distribution of EV charging stations across the city, showing that major corridors are well-equipped, although smaller gas stations remain prevalent.

In a move towards sustainable municipal operations, Denton has added 11 electric vehicles and six e-bikes to its fleet in the past year. The city also introduced its first electric car engine in April, demonstrating a commitment to transitioning its light-duty fleet to electric options. Funding is available to support departments in this transition, with many already adopting EVs without requiring financial assistance.

The committee also reported on improvements to transportation infrastructure, including the addition of 4.2 miles of trails and nearly 2 miles of sidewalk repairs. Currently, 57% of residents live within a 10-minute walk to a park, and discussions are underway to better categorize trails that serve both recreational and transportation purposes.

Public transportation usage is on the rise, with a reported 9.37% increase in ridership for the Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA) from the previous year. Additionally, energy efficiency initiatives have gained traction, with 94% of energy efficiency rebates going to homes built in 2009 or earlier, highlighting the need for upgrades in older housing stock.

The city has also made strides in reducing municipal energy consumption, achieving a 9.27% decrease in electric usage and a 34% reduction in water usage across municipal buildings. These efforts are attributed to improved irrigation systems and the conversion of facilities to LED lighting.

As Denton continues to implement its climate action plan, the committee emphasized the importance of integrating greenhouse gas inventory data into future sustainability efforts. The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on the progress made and the potential for further advancements in the city's sustainability initiatives.