Downey approves $1.52 million fast-charging EV hub at Civic Center

A Tesla recharges outside the Downey City Library on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. (Photo by Eric Pierce)

DOWNEY — The Downey City Council last week approved a contract to install new fast-charging electric vehicle stations at the Civic Center, a move city officials say will significantly reduce wait times and expand access for drivers as demand for charging continues to grow.

The council approved a $1.44 million public works contract with Positive Energy, Inc. for the design, procurement and installation of five dual-port Level 3 fast-charging stations near the Downey Library. The action also included a 5 percent project contingency, bringing the total project cost to about $1.52 million.

City staff said the existing Level 2 chargers at the Civic Center are among the most heavily used in Downey but require long charging sessions, often limiting availability. Level 3 fast chargers can add up to 180 to 240 miles of driving range per hour, compared with about 25 miles per hour for Level 2 chargers, allowing for quicker turnover and shorter charging times.

The new chargers will replace three existing Level 2 stations at the library and add two additional fast chargers nearby, creating one of the city’s largest fast-charging hubs. The Civic Center location was selected because of its central access for residents, nearby businesses and visitors attending events at the Downey Theatre or conducting business at City Hall.

Funding for the project comes from a combination of grants and local sources, including $560,000 from the California Energy Commission’s Fast 2.0 program, $250,000 from the Clean Power Alliance, $160,140 from the U.S. Department of Energy and approximately $549,000 in South Coast Air Quality Management District funds.

Construction is expected to begin in May, with completion anticipated by March 2028. The timeline includes coordination with Southern California Edison for upgrades to underground electrical infrastructure needed to support the higher energy demand of fast-charging equipment.