By hannover-web.com In Riverside, California, an empty Sears retail space that has stood vacant for years is set to be demolished and transformed into a new development featuring 388 apartments and townhomes, along with supporting amenities to address local housing needs. The city council recently approved the initiative, but some council members and residents have voiced their opposition, expressing concerns over potential impacts on community safety and increased traffic congestion. The project is expected to be completed within the next two years.
Despite the opposition, the city council remains steadfast in its plan for the redevelopment. Once the building is demolished, the nearly 18-acre site will undergo significant changes, including the construction of 13 three-story apartment buildings and 14 two-story townhomes, as well as a retail area and open spaces to enhance community life with features like a convenience supermarket, a recreational pool, and a public dog park.
The Riverside Sears building, located on Arlington Avenue, originally opened its doors in 1964 but failed to gain historical landmark status, which contributed to its lack of preservation. The council approved the demolition and reconstruction project with a 6-1 vote at the end of September, with Councilmember Clarissa Cervantes casting the sole dissenting vote. She emphasized the need for careful consideration of any housing development type to ensure the safety of residents and the community.
Located near the Riverside Municipal Airport, the council’s vote also overturned the Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission’s ruling, which had raised concerns about the public safety risks associated with high-density housing near the airport. The city council, however, opted to accept findings that contradicted the commission, stating that the project would not conflict with the airport and would actually reduce public exposure to excessive noise and safety hazards in the surrounding area.
Cervantes reiterated her concerns, saying, “I voted against the project due to my apprehension about the proposed land use change and the clear safety risks put forth by multiple agencies regarding the project’s proximity to Riverside Municipal Airport.”
According to city officials, the Sears building is owned by Riverside Property Owner LLC, a partnership. James Ivory, the company’s vice president, indicated back in February 2024 that the residential development is expected to exceed $100 million in costs, with residents potentially moving in around 2027 or 2028.
