The ideal image for retail business attraction, often
referred to as Main Street America, is alive and well
in Fontana. Throughout the city, strategic investment
in development along major corridors has helped to
create new jobs, encourage economic growth, and
with a concerted reinvestment of revenue, has helped
to improve quality of life issues for the community.
Today, a fresh focus and a high priority is being placed on Valley Boulevard, long
considered a gem in the rough and originally developed under the governance of
County regulations. Over the years the area was gradually annexed by the City of
Fontana and many of the stakeholders, those who have property or businesses in
the immediate area, experienced major challenges while trying to stay in business
and alter their properties to comply with Fontana-specific codes.
By working with the stakeholders, the City has formed the Valley Boulevard
Transition District, a mutually beneficial plan that will establish development
standards to help sustain the current economic vitality of the area as well define the
image to help it successfully become a leading force for the future.
The desire to work with stakeholders is guided by several investments already
focused on the area. Construction of overcrossings at Cypress Avenue, Citrus
Avenue, and Cherry Avenue, have started, or will begin, within the next three years
and make a substantial impact on the area. With flow of traffic and commerce
eased by the passes, which extend from Valley Boulevard over the I-10 freeway
and end at Slover Avenue, there is tremendous potential not only for increased
business in the area but also for image enhancements through landscape and
road improvements. Additionally, Kaiser Permanente is undergoing an extensive
reconstruction project that will improve the image of the boulevard as well as create
jobs for a professional workforce and possibly provide a need for hotels, shops,
schools, offices, and restaurants.
With such major investments going into the area, it is not surprising that both the
stakeholders along Valley Boulevard and the City Council want to help each other
to come up with the development standards that will best make this gem shine
brightly in years to come.
Property owners on Valley Boulevard who are interested in sharing their ideas
are asked to call Shannon Casey, , Senior Planner, with the Planning Department at
(909) 350-7608. |
