Downey, California, is set to welcome a new Costco warehouse and gas station, a development recently approved by the city council. The project, slated for Firestone Boulevard, has generated mixed reactions from residents, with some questioning the need for an additional store given the proximity of an existing Costco.
Mayor Pro Tem Horacio Ortiz Jr. announced the project's approval, highlighting its potential benefits. "This investment in this Costco project will create hundreds of jobs, generate new revenue for essential city services, and strengthen our city’s future," Ortiz stated.
However, some residents expressed skepticism on social media. Users like mustygus and roots_rock_mcbay pointed out the nearby Costco in Norwalk, questioning the necessity of a new location. Another resident suggested a preference for a Trader Joe's over another Costco.
Despite these concerns, other residents welcomed the news, citing issues with the current Costco in Norwalk. User stopreadingthis___ noted that parking at the Norwalk location has become "horrendous" since its renovation. Your_lender_ricardo agreed, stating, "I always drive a bit more and go to Lakewood location.. happy to welcome one to Downey."
The funding agreement for the Downey project totals $10.5 million and involves multiple entities, including Costco Wholesale Corp., Downey Nissan, Andrews Rancho del Norte, and Andrews Rancho del Sur. The plan includes relocating Downey Nissan to a new site on Firestone Boulevard, with the Costco warehouse and gas station to be constructed on a 13.59-acre lot that encompasses the former All American Home Center site and the current Downey Nissan dealership property.
The new Costco is still in the early stages of development. Following the city council's approval, the project must undergo a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and entitlement process, expected to take 10 to 12 months. Subsequently, the relocation and construction of Downey Nissan is anticipated to take approximately one year, followed by another year for the construction of the Costco warehouse and gas station itself. This timeline means the new store is still a considerable distance from opening its doors.