Upland, CA — The Upland Economic Development Committee met on Dec. 2 at the historic Carnegie Library Building to review updates on the city’s ongoing downtown revitalization efforts and other economic projects.
Development Services Director Robert D. Dalquest and Economic Development Coordinator Melecio Picazo presented a detailed report highlighting major achievements, current developments and upcoming initiatives.
The Economic Development Committee, which includes Councilmembers Garcia, Zuniga and Chamber representative Terri Galdo, meets quarterly to review key economic development projects and programs.
At the heart of the presentation was the city’s downtown revitalization project. Dalquest emphasized its transformative goals, which include the construction of new residential units, business attraction, façade improvements and the creation of urban open spaces.
Among the residential projects, the City Ventures development at First Avenue and A Street is progressing rapidly.
“They’re working feverishly to get the first building done,” Dalquest remarked, noting that the units are priced in the high $500,000 to $600,000 range.
Another significant development is the Stowell Street properties, featuring the Euclid Villas with 81 senior housing units and Magnolia Villas, which will provide 93 workforce housing units.
Both projects are designed to serve low-income households and are expected to begin construction within the next 18 months.
The Upland Packing House Apartments, comprising 111 units near the Metrolink rail station, also awaits construction financing approval.
The city’s Business Attraction and Assistance Program continues to breathe new life into downtown. Since its inception, it has helped establish seven new restaurants, two breweries and several other businesses.
“This program has been very successful in the modernization of downtown,” Picazo said.
Highlights include the opening of Two Frogs Cantina and Grill, which is scheduled for January next year, and the popular Studio Four29, which offers American fusion cuisine.
Picazo also provided updates on the Commercial Rehabilitation Program, which supports downtown businesses through grants.
The committee reviewed the upcoming Tom Thomas Magnolia Plaza, which will serve as a central public space and trailhead along the Pacific Electric Trail.
A new parking structure at First Avenue and C Street, designed in the style of the Packing House architecture, will feature retail space and EV charging stations. Construction drawings are expected to be completed by September of next year.
Beyond the downtown area, other notable projects are underway. These include the redevelopment of McDonald’s on W. Foothill Boulevard, a Tesla dealership expansion and the luxury Colonies Condominiums, featuring units ranging from 1,190 to 3,440 square feet.
The city is also focusing on fostering small businesses through its partnership with the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC). This initiative offers free business consulting and training.
While there is progress, the committee acknowledged some challenges. The Amazon Fresh project in the Upland Village Center remains uncertain, and the city is still seeking funding sources for several initiatives.
The meeting concluded with a preview of 2025 initiatives, including a Cable Airport Event Center and additional urban housing developments.
The next Economic Development Committee meeting is scheduled for March 3, 2025, where further updates will be discussed.
