(Atlantic) The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the installation of new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations with a ribbon cutting on Thursday, October 22nd, in the City parking lot south of Atlantic Municipal Utilities (AMU).
The project was made possible after the City of Atlantic was awarded an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) in November 2025. AMU General Manager Steve Tjepkes shared that the idea had been discussed for several years as more people began asking about EV charging options in Atlantic. When the grant opportunity became available, the City, AMU, Cass/Atlantic Development Corporation (CADCO) and the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce worked together to make the project happen.
The new station includes four Level 2 chargers and two DC fast chargers, all designed to accommodate different types of electric vehicles. The Level 2 chargers are intended for longer stops, all chargers can charge all modern vehicles from approximately 20% to 80% in 25 to 30 minutes. The fast chargers are awaiting a few final touches and are expected to be operational by the end of October.
The chargers were strategically placed within walking distance of downtown restaurants, shopping and other local amenities, giving travelers options for how to spend their time while their vehicles charge.
AMU staff shared that the chargers had already welcomed their first traveler the evening before the ribbon cutting. The driver, who regularly travels between Des Moines and Red Oak for work, discovered Atlantic’s charging station through an EV charging app and told staff he expects to stop in Atlantic multiple times a week.
To help visitors plan their stop, the Chamber has created a webpage with charging instructions, rates and suggestions for nearby restaurants, shopping, parks and attractions.
For more information about the EV chargers and what to explore while visiting Atlantic, go to https://www.AtlanticIowaEV.com
