Safeway submits parking reduction request for Greenstone Avenue industrial site

In a recent Planning Commission meeting held on July 14, 2025, the City Council of Santa Fe Springs discussed a significant proposal concerning a new tenant at 11401 Greenstone Avenue. The site, which spans approximately 6.6 acres and is zoned for heavy manufacturing, is set to welcome Safeway, a global leader in industrial services, as its first tenant.

The primary focus of the meeting was Safeway's request to reserve 116 parking stalls for temporary outdoor storage, rather than providing them immediately. This request comes as the company prepares to utilize the newly constructed 144,434 square foot industrial building, which has remained vacant since receiving its certificate of occupancy in March 2024. The building was initially designed to accommodate multiple tenants, requiring a total of 205 parking spaces. However, with Safeway as the sole occupant, the demand is reduced to 191 spaces.

Safeway, formed from a merger in 2017, specializes in various industrial services, including scaffolding and fireproofing, and operates in over 25 countries. The company plans to use the facility for warehousing materials and outdoor storage, which will include equipment and a 1,000-gallon above-ground diesel tank. The operational hours will be Monday through Friday, with a maximum of 69 employees on-site at peak times.

The proposed site plan includes a 14-foot high screen wall to minimize visibility of the outdoor storage from the public. The layout ensures that materials will be stored approximately 65 feet from this wall, further reducing their visibility. The commission also noted that the site would maintain fire lanes and circulation, with all storage activities subject to review and permitting.

This proposal reflects the city's ongoing efforts to adapt to operational demands while balancing community needs, particularly in terms of parking and visibility. The Planning Commission's approval of the alternative parking plan, which includes provisions for addressing potential parking issues, indicates a proactive approach to managing the impacts of new industrial operations in the area. As Safeway prepares to consolidate its operations at this location, the community will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold.