A recently released plan for the redevelopment of Sun Valley could be a model for how we can take a smart approach to revitalizing areas of the Valley that especially need it. It also gives us pointers on how to best use our land here. Since we’re pretty much built out throughout the San Fernando Valley we really need to turn attention to whether or not we are squandering our best resource that being our land. The Sun Valley Renaissance Concept Plan was released Oct. 16 by the American Institute of Architects San Fernando Valley Chapter and the Economic Alliance of the San Fernando Valley. Some details of the plan are presented in a story on page 3 of this issue. Basically, the plan is a living document which we all know will not be adopted in its entirety once it goes through all the political channels. It calls for making the Sun Valley area in the northeast Valley a far more livable and economically viable area. Right now, although it’s home to several small but successful manufacturing companies, it’s also home to ugly auto salvage yards which waste a lot of space and used-up gravel pits that are just sitting there. Signage is also a mess. But in Sun Valley there are also some nice residential neighborhoods and a great community spirit. It’s just not all tied together very well. The concept plan, devised by the Urban Design Assistance Team of the architects’ group (which did a great job on a similar plan for Panorama City, parts of which were adopted) would not get rid of the businesses and industries in Sun Valley; rather it would repurpose the commercial components in the area. So-called “cleaner” industries such as entertainment would be reviewed. Keeping the industrial component as a large part of the area is crucial, I believe in revitalizing the area but too much of our revitalization in the Valley to date has consisted of just slapping up ugly multi-family units and calling it a day. The occupants of these units have nowhere to work. More green spaces are also part of the plan as are better roads and sidewalks and a technical arts high school. This is a forward-looking component which will help keep our industries equipped with properly-trained employees which are so desperately needed in our economy. Sun Valley has been ignored for too long. This plan is a good and realistic start to giving the community the attention it deserves. Business Journal Editor Jason Schaff can be reached at (818) 316-3125 or at [email protected]
