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Former Sears building approved for downtown redevelopment with El Super grocery
Summary
The council approved a downtown permit to convert the long-vacant Sears building into about 110,000 square feet of retail anchored by El Super, plus second-floor tenant spaces and a promenade. Developers said the project will transform a downtown blighted site.
The City Council approved a downtown permit to redevelop the former Sears building in the Town Center District, clearing the way for an El Super grocery store and other retail spaces in the long-vacant structure.
Shannon Dow, director of community development, described the project as a catalyst for downtown revitalization. The applicant proposes to remodel roughly 110,000 square feet of retail space on a site the applicant described as approximately 4.5 to 5.4 acres; plans call for El Super on the ground floor, two large tenant spaces on the second floor (each about 23,000 square feet) and smaller storefronts converted from the former tire center garage. The proposal includes a new promenade and outdoor dining area and the planting of approximately 60 new trees along the frontage.
Sarah Mariano Withers, director of development and entitlements for the Charles Company, said the developer has worked closely with city staff and local reviewers and that El Super will operate hot food and in-store seating as part of the grocery layout. Dave Rodonovich, vice president of construction for the tenant, said El Super operates multiple banners across the region and is prepared to build and open the store.
The planning commission recommended approval with an incentive allowing the two second-floor tenant spaces to return to the planning commission for future review when the developer is ready to lease them. Staff said environmental review was covered by the downtown specific plan and that the project includes modest alcohol sales (an ABC Type 21 retail-off-sale license) limited to packaged goods for off-site consumption.
On a motion and second, the council approved the downtown permit on a roll-call vote: Council member Aguilera Hernandez — Aye; Mayor Pro Tem Escobedo — Aye; Council member Flores — Aye; Council member So to — Aye; Mayor Patino — Aye.
