They are back. We’re talking about the welcome vision of scaffolding, makeshift entrances, temporary shop signs that say “yes, we are open,” and construction crews going about their business all along the east side of Sierra Avenue south of the Chamber of Commerce between Arrow Boulevard and Valencia Avenue.
The reason for this concentration of activity is the construction Phase 2 of the Fontana Façade Program, another major aesthetic enhancement for the downtown district.
Changing the face of downtown Fontana
Phase 1 of the façade program was a huge success.
The vision for the downtown façade program is to change the visual appearance of the buildings in the hopes that motorists might be more tempted to stop and shop. The façade program is to be completed in three phases. The first phase of the frontage improvements was finished in 2007 along the east side of Sierra Avenue, south of Valencia Avenue and north of Orange Avenue. Now two years old, the area continues to attract customers and offers a wonderful urban feel to a region once dominated by farmland and largely defined by the steel mill industry of the early 50s.
The redevelopment agency had a brief hiatus from the façade program in 2008 when they took on the incredible task of finishing the construction of the Lewis Library and Technology Center and refurbishment of Center Stage Theater. With these two major projects now complete, work has resumed on the façade program.
Construction for Phase 2 began in March 2009, and while it is attracting a lot of attention, the progress has made little impact on the ebb and flow of traffic for drivers or pedestrians. Involved in the building process is the removal of old canopies, the installation of new architectural building fronts, stucco and fresh paint on the outside of the buildings, replacement of windows and doors, installation of new signage, and the addition of colorful awnings. Queen Palm Trees will also be planted to offer a little energy saving shade for the buildings and some cover for pedestrians while they window-shop or enjoy an afternoon stroll downtown on new decorative sidewalks.
A partnership with stakeholders
The panel on top is a rendition of how the shops will appear when Phase Two is complete.
The downtown façade program is a great example of partnerships between the city and community. From the beginning, the phases have represented how a city may effectively work with property owners and businesses to improve the quality of life and economic viability of an area.
The Façade Renovation Program was designed with input from stakeholders (business and property owners) and funded entirely by the city. Property owners agree to grant the City an 18” façade easement for the period of 10 years although, during that time, the property owners maintain the façade of their building. By working together, the city has ensured that the major needs of the property owner, such as safety and a welcoming storefront, are met.
The City also approaches the renovation with a plan to ensure that the building designs offer unity and cohesion to the downtown area. As a group, the symmetry of the block gives the buildings more visual appeal that creates a sense of movement and space, as well as provides ease of access. The result will give the downtown area a more modern urban image.
Phase 2 is scheduled to be completed before Christmas, 2009. To find out more about the façade program please visit the Fontana Redevelopment Agency online.
