The Antelope Valley Times

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Retail center construction underway at Rancho Vista Town Center

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The Walmart Neighborhood Market is a traditional grocery store and will be approximately 40,000 square feet, comparable in size to nearby grocers. The new store will bring about 65 new jobs to the community, plus construction jobs.
The Walmart Neighborhood Market is a traditional grocery store and will be approximately 40,000 square feet, comparable in size to nearby grocers. The new store will bring about 65 new jobs to the community, plus construction jobs.

PALMDALE – Signifying another major step toward completion of the Rancho Vista Specific Plan, which was approved by the City of Palmdale in 1986, RY Properties, Inc. announced Tuesday that construction is underway at the Rancho Vista Town Center.

The property located at the intersection of Rancho Vista Blvd. and Town Center Drive in West Palmdale will feature two prominent brands to anchor the center, a national coffeehouse with a drive thru and a Walmart Neighborhood Market grocery store.

“We are delighted to see construction underway for this long-planned retail center,” stated Palmdale Mayor James C. Ledford.  “When Gregg Anderson created the vision for the Rancho Vista Specific Plan more than 20 years ago, he saw a high-quality, walkable community with neighborhood amenities so residents could live, shop and recreate there.”

With construction and tenant attraction efforts fully underway a grand opening of the center is anticipated for later this year.
With construction and tenant attraction efforts fully underway a grand opening of the center is anticipated for later this year.

The land that the retail center is located upon has been zoned for this particular use, including a grocery store, since 1986.

In addition to the national coffeehouse with a drive thru, the center will be anchored by a full-service grocery store, Walmart Neighborhood Market.  The Neighborhood Market is a traditional grocery store and will be approximately 40,000 square feet, comparable in size to nearby grocers.

The new store will feature a wide variety of products and services, including organic produce, meats and dairy products, frozen foods, dry goods and staples, cleaning products, pet supplies, a pharmacy, and health and beauty products.

Although this is the first such store in the Antelope Valley, Walmart Neighborhood Markets are already established throughout the state in communities such as Simi Valley, Huntington Beach, Rancho Cucamonga and Rancho Santa Margarita.   The new store will bring about 65 new jobs to the community, plus construction jobs.

According to the developer of the project, other tenants that are currently being pursued are a financial institution, a sit-down family restaurant and other retail services to round out the center. In all, the goal of the project is to provide neighborhood convenience to Rancho Vista.

“As the Rancho Vista community continues to grow along with surrounding neighborhoods in West Palmdale, so too does the need for neighborhood retail increase,” stated Greg Quan, Development Manager of R.Y. Properties, developer of the retail center.  “We are targeting a mix of high-quality retailers to offer neighborhood convenience to the area.  We’ve worked hard to reach out to the neighborhood to ensure that the services offered meet their needs.”

With construction and tenant attraction efforts fully underway a grand opening of the center is anticipated for later this year.

(Information via press release from CB Richard Ellis | Brokerage Services and RY Properties, Inc.)

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Filed Under: Business, Palmdale

146 comments for "Retail center construction underway at Rancho Vista Town Center"

  1. Said it once will say it again the Westside of Palmdale has been sold completely out. I hope the people of this area don’t spend 1 penny there…. If you notice when the Transit Village the Chick-Fil-A project the Dick’s sporting all had there groundbreaking ceremony The Mayor and members of the city council all had there face in the picture taken credit. But when walmart broke ground no Mayor no city officials to be found to celebrate..Because when your guilty your are weak the Mayor knows the neighborhood of rancho vista didn’t want a Walmart in there backyard and he didn’t fight for the people instead the Mayor praise walmart.

    • I could not agree with you more Tom! Had I known this would be happening, I would have definitely expressed my dismay and fervent passion against it. Sadly, I didnt and even sadder still, I didnt find out until I saw the earth being torn up like garbage. My first concern was the displaced animals that live within that soil and the damage it is doing them. I was so upset and could only think about their demise from this disgusting greed that feeds the officials and the Walmart corporation. Deep pockets.

      Once I came away from my sadness for the critters, I was outraged that this was even being allowed in our neighborhood. The traffic, noise, invasive properties that happen with a market being in such close proximity to those who reside with an even extra concern for those who live back-to-back with it as I see it on my walks. I even took pictures of the early stages of construction.

      One more thing, the garbage. There will be an increase in garbage around the outlining areas! I certainly dont want more garbage being dumped by some jerk in the open unoccupied areas! Oh Lord, help us. Even the nicest neighborhoods that Walmart occupies has garbage around it. Plastic bags, diapers, food wrappers and containers.

      I can go on for hours and hours. This is a pathetic situation. And from what I understand it is designed to be great competition for Trader Joe’s. I hope I’m wrong.

      • Are you really concerned for the “displaced animals that live within the soil”? Were you that concerned for the displaced animals when YOUR HOME, and those of your neighbors, was being built?

        And regarding extra traffic, just the opposite! When I have to go to the grocery store, I drive the the intersection where this new store is being built, and then continue to drive another 1-3 miles to go to Von’s, Albertson’s, or WalMart on 10th St. With the new store, I will drive 1-3 fewer miles each time I need to shop, and even more if I walk to the market.

        And while the people living back-to-back with the new store, it was never a surprise to them. That land was intended to be exactly what it is now becoming, from back in 1986! Those residents had up to 28 YEARS to live there without the ALREADY PLANNED center being built.

        I look forward to finally having a neighborhood market.

        • @richard hillman.

          Assuming that Tammy Osuna shops at the Von’s Rancho Vista Center or at the Albertson’s on Rancho Vista at 50th Street West, she’s fine with those stores/shopping centers being next to OTHER PEOPLE’S HOUSES.

          Ain’t that somthin’? NIMBY it’s called.

          I could go on for hours and hours.

      • The garbage, Tammy Osuna?

        The shoppers at this store will be your neighbors in Rancho Vista. If there are problems associated with the store it will be from them.

        Do you not realize that?

    • I don’t recall the mayor going to every opening of every new supermarket in Palmdale.

      Dick’s Sporting Goods at the Mall along with other new businesses in the old Harris store that has been empty for years is a big deal.

      The Chick Fil A is part of a complex of several other businesses and is another big deal. It’s not simply a Chick Fil A opening.

      So, you might want to rethink what you wrote.

      • maybe there ain’t no picture with the mayor and councilman at the groundbreaking ceremony cuz maybe there ain’t been no groundbreaking ceremony?

    • Sometimes you can go to the company website and fill out an application for upcoming locations. That is often how management positions get filled first.

  3. Will History Repeat?!!! Rancho Vista has a good chance in seeing Vons & Albertson’s close down because these stores pay more of a Living Wage then Wal Mart pays its employees, they cannot compete. This is why when I ran for city council 20 years ago and campaigned against a Wal-Mart expanding into a grocery superstore on 47th East because Albertson’s & Vons said they would close and the community would loose quality stores. They where right, there closed. Westside repeats Eastside of Palmdale. LOW WAGES = LOW QUALITY OF LIFE = LOW HOME VALUES!

    • It is pretty simple. If you don’t want Walmarts, don’t shop there. No city council member, not even you, could legally stop it. The power is in the hands of the consumer.

      • People love Walmart. It is always crowded there, especially around the holidays.
        It is pretty simple. If you don’t like low wages, don’t work at Walmart or a fast food joint.
        I will not support a raise in minimum wage until they start getting my order right at the drive thru.

    • Actually the crime rate has gone down, not up since the Wal-Mart opened in Rast Palmdale. A recent article in The Antelope Valley Press listed the crime rates. They have been going down since the late 90s, which is when that Walmart opened. The crime rate has gone down even more after the Super Target opened.

    • You are so right and our property values are dropping. Let’s plan to boycott this Walmart…it’ our only hope.

      • @PT
        Where are you getting the information that your property values are dropping?

        They’ve been recovering since the Great Bush Recession of 2008-9 when property values dropped significantly.

        Did they go back up and then drop again where you live or what?

        The Walmart hasn’t even been built yet and you say property values are already dropping? It must be due to something else. Are you maintaining your property?

        • William—Instead of questioning PT about where he is getting his information, why don’t you back up your information with facts. People learn from facts that are correct.

          • @bird
            Are you new to this planet?

            PT made the initial statement, it’s up to that person to provide a source.

            You always get things upside down and backward, bird.

            But, keep it up as you continually show your ignorance.

      • According to the article in today’s Antelope Valley Press, property values are continuing to rise. Here is an exerpt:

        “Gains in home prices might slow down

        Antelope Valley home prices continued their rapid gains in July, but there are signs increases are moderating nationwide.

        Six out of the seven ZIP codes for Lancaster and Palmdale showed double-digit year-over-year gains in June. The one ZIP code not in double digits, the 93536 ZIP code in Lancaster, still saw a healthy 6.2% gain with a median price of $239,000.

        In Lancaster’s 93534 ZIP code, the median selling price of a home in July was $160,000, up 42.9%. In the 93535 ZIP code, the median price was $163,000, up 25.4%.

        In Palmdale’s 93550 ZIP code, the median selling price was $182,000, up 20.5%.

        In the 93551 ZIP code, the July median home price was $302,000, up 18.2%. In the 93552 ZIP code, the median home price was $215,000, up 22.9%. In the 93591 ZIP code, which covers Lake Los Angeles, the median price was $126,000, up 32.3%.

        After increasing by double-digit rates for 23 months, the statewide median price rose 6.6% year over year in June, according to the California Association of Realtors. ”

        Property values are clearly not dropping, but if you want to boycott Walmart, knock yourself out.

    • ATTEN HUN! MAYBE THEY’LL ADD A CUSTARD SHOP. THEY’RE ALL THE RAGE THESE DAYS. BOY OH BOY DOES THE CAP’N LOVE HIS CUSTARD! AT EASE!

  5. Trader Joes of Palmdale is one of their most successful stores — from the beginning. The City of Palmdale has sold us down the river with their low expectations. Expect less, get less. Palmdale needs to set their visions higher combined with a more positive attitude as to whom we can attract. Walmart is not Whole Foods. It never will be. How many of those trashy places do we need? They are already throughout the Antelope Valley. We are fraught with them and needn’t any more.

    Whole Wheatery is doing terrific! And, once again, as I’ve mentioned, TJ’s is absolutely successful. There is no reason in the world that Whole Foods wouldn’t do well also.

    @ GHF: “let me guess … ANOTHER Starbucks… & why do we NEED yet ANOTHER Walmart?” GHF, that is a terrific question. Unfortunately, there will be no satisfying, credible answer from the City.

    Sad times once again for Palmdale.

    • Don’t want to put water on a nice fiery tirade DB, but While Wheatery, Whole Foods and Eve Wholly Cow could have opened stores there, but they didn’t. It’s that simple. Businesses go where they think they can make a go of it. Why else do you think no name stores are on the BLVD? It’s not like Lancaster hasn’t billed it as the second coming of the Promenade in Santa Monica.

    • @DB

      I’ll say it once more. If a Whole Foods or a Gelson’s were to locate in the Antelope Valley, it most likely would be in the are surrounding the Mall, a high traffic area with many other retail shops.

      It wouldn’t have gone into the Rancho Vista location. They aren’t ‘neighborhood grocery stores’. To think otherwise is naive.

      A Trader Joe’s wouldn’t have gone into the Rancho Vista location either. It didn’t. I’ve noticed that TJ’s doesn’t stock some of the items it used to stock when it first opened because why? I’m guessing that certain higher ends products weren’t selling in this area. They used to offer Niman Ranch meats but I haven’t seen that in a long time or they’ve cut back on the variety of them.

      These companies know what they are doing. As for Walmarts, you mean to tell me that Rancho Vista residents don’t shop at the Walmart on 10th Street West, Sam’e Club or COSTCO?

      A Whole Foods or Gelson’s would be great in Palmdale but, sheesh, we just came out of a severe recession and the Antelope Valley still has a high unemployment rate, not the ideal place for those type stores just yet. Eventually they might come but you need to be realistic. There isn’t a Lexus or Mercedes dealership in the AV yet either.

      I’m assuming you moved to the Antelope Valley for nice housing at affordable prices such as in Rancho Vista but then to also expect high end merchants to cater to people who live in affordable homes is, how you say, rich.

  6. AV Times Staff, can we get an update on what other stores will be occupying the retail space at Rancho Vista Town Center? Thank you for covering this!

  7. Ever been to a Walmart in another state or in a more affluent community? They are clean and nice. Walmart is is a beacon where most of your community is drawn to the prices, if you don’t like what you see shopping there guess what, those are your neighbors

  8. Just glad I don’t live in Rancho Vista or work in Lancaster anymore. 12 years in the AV was enough. I like the Santa Clarita way better…closer-in to The Valley and L.A. (Still have my storage in Lancaster, though. Great pricing.) Good luck to my former Rancho Vista brethren…

  9. Throw a rock in a pack of dogs you can tell the one you hit the one that cry out.what does a million dollar house has to do with anything. Inglewood ca & Quartz hill has few to none million dollar homes but they voted and kick that piece of crap Walmart out of there neighborhood. Anyone can google NO Walmart and see how many everyday neighborhoods have keep them out. Walmart has its place but not in the hart of your neighborhood.

  10. Since the decision has been made to build the Walmart neighborhood grocery, did any thought go into the increased traffic through the neighborhood in the surrounding areas? The already speeding cars through the neighborhood and rushing children to and from schools behind Town Center Dr. need to be addressed with the increase traffic going into this new shopping center.

    • That’s funny, CJ.

      Rancho Vista Boulevard has been a ‘raceway’ for years, and I presume because of the very same people who live there.

      Perhaps a new signal will slow traffic near the Walmart. Problem solved?

      But, you know how people are. They want to be able to speed and will be upset by having one more stop light. Never satisfied.

    • @ CJ google Quartz hill claims victory in fight to keep Dog – Mart out, I mean Wal- Mart out. Walmart is like a Brothel men do visit them but no one is foolish enough to want one in there neighborhoods.CJ please don’t shop at this Walmart is you have to go to 10th Street. And please please spread the word. The next time your at 10th Street Walmart look around you will see what I mean by Brothel a Low down place

      • @Tom

        So, Tom, which ‘million dollar home’ in Rancho Vista do you live in? There are so many…..oh, wait. I’m getting something in my earpiece.

        Nevermind.

  11. I am a father of two teens and a fulltime caregiver to my wife that has multiple sclerosis that’s been bedridden for about 13 years. I am doing all I can do to make ends meet so I have to suffer? struggling to make ends meet I am so tired hearing our demographics…. build it we will come. they thought we wouldn’t use trader Joe’s! they are still here, and busier then ever. we aren’t low life’s. that’s! what’s what they are implying. so we don’t deserve??? so maybe we need to move to where they have better retailers. I moved to Palmdale 15 years ago because of the growth and to raise my kids in a house we had built from the ground up. we palmdalers need to reconsider a new business manager, and mayer that will think out of the box!!!

    • @dave

      I don’t get your comment. You are struggling to make ends meet yet you want upscale retailers to locate in Palmdale. So would I.

      But, do you have the $$$$$$$$$s to spend at an upscale store? They don’t cater to customers that are struggling to get by.

      They’ll come eventually if the demographics support it. Mayor Ledford and the city manager can’t make them do it. Mayor Ledford did work to get Trader Joe’s, so why are you wanting to replace him? I don’t know if he talked to Whole Foods or Gelson’s or maybe he already knew they weren’t ready to locate here.

      You might not like the use of demographics but that’s what businesses use. I’m sure there are people in Mojave or Barstow that would like a Whole Foods too but it ain’t gonna happen. Nothing wrong with those 2 cities but business goes where they think it’s good for them.

    • @ Dave I get your comment 100%. Dave we’re all struggling in one way or another but we seek better even in our struggle that’s the American way God bless you. What’s going on @ rancho vista & town center is far beyond obvious they know there are $$$$$ in them there hills of rancho vista. WALMART and those who approved building PERMITS are coming to get some that rancho vista $$$$$. As far as demographic we’re not going to spend (1) demographic penny at that Walmart.Dave spread the word I’m at Vons all the time and the neighborhood people are talking the Hell with Walmart.

  12. Question for the Rancho Vista residents.

    Why do you suppose that Whole Foods or Gelson’s didn’t look to build a store on this site? Or anywhere else in the Antelope Valley? Give it some thought.

    Years ago, I asked Mayor Ledford if he could work on getting a Cheescake Factory on Restaurant Row. He replied that our demographics wouldn’t support locating here. OK. Got it.

    I haven’t spoken to him about the Neighborhood Walmart but I’m guessing that the same applies to Whole Foods and Gelson’s.

    We are lucky to get a Trader Joe’s and they aren’t high end like those 2 stores.

    You bought a house in the Antelope Valley because it was affordable and now you expect high end retailers to show up just for you. Interesting.

    BTW I, too, would like both those high end stores but I’m not expecting them to build here anytime soon, especially after the severe recession and high unemployment in the AV.

    Think, people. Think. Some of you sound like children the month before Christmas making your wish lists. Eat some chocolate and you’ll feel better.

    • I never (Mentioned) Whole foods or Gelson’s. By the way Trader’s Joe’s on 10th Street is 100% successful. The reality is the people of this area would rather that Lot be turned into a really nice (Green Space) than a Walmart….. Walmart is the Jerry Springer of shopping. The households income in that (AREA) matches any mid America households . William we don’t need you to save us (MONEY) it’s none of your business how we spend or (MONEY). The hard fact is when big construction break grown people get paid off.. Ledford pick the low hanging fruit.

      • @Tom
        What the heck are you talkiing about?

        Your comment makes so little sense.

        You want what you want and blame Mayor Ledford because you didn’t get what you want. Do you have any proof of what you are accusing him of?

        I ate at Buffalo’s Cafe on the eastside a week ago and liked it so much I went back Saturday. I asked the server if they had plans on building one on the westside. He didn’t know.

        But, I’m not going to come here and whine about it. Have you contacted anyone about your wants? Anyone that could do something about it?

        When I wanted a Cheesecake Factory, I asked Mayor Ledford about it. And got an answer.

        BTW Did you not notice that my above comment wasn’t a reply to you. But, you said that you didn’t mention Gelson’s or Whole Foods as though it was to you. Everything isn’t about you, Tom.

        • @William, want to work on a trader Joe’s for Lancaster with me. They didn’t want a cheesecake factory yet we get yard house?

          • @Red

            As far as I can recall, Mayor Ledford personally talked to Trader Joe’s about coming to Palmdale and that it was an uphill push at that.

            As for the Cheese Cake Factory, he told me that our demographics back 5 or 6 years ago wouldn’t support it.
            It was the CCF’s decision not Mayor Ledford’s.

            As for a TJs in Lancaster, I guess Parris would have to personally talk to the company as did Mayor Ledford. But, Parris is busy with other things apparently. I suggest bringing it up at a council meeting. While he lobbies for some businesses like Morton’s, he doesn’t seem to go for desirable retail and restaurants at all. Why would Chick Fil A prefer Palmdale over Lancaster, for example? They have about the same populations.

            Where would a TJs be located in Lancaster? I doubt it would be on the BLVD as there isn’t enough traffic. I don’t think there is any shopping center in Lancaster that is as good a location as the one on 10th Street West close to the Mall and other businesses. That’s the kind of location TJs, Whole Foods Gelson’s and others must want. I doubt if near the COSTCO location is sufficient

            Bottom line is that’s it’s always up to the companies themselves and the big corporations that have many stores around the state or the country have experts who investigate where to build.

            Good luck, Red

    • I live in Acton and have to drive 29 miles to Ralph’s in Valencia to find a decent Deli. The Ralph’s in Canyon Country is a joke and the one in Lancaster doesn’t even have a Deli. It would be nice if Ralph’s built a decent store in Palmdale. (with a real Deli).

  13. Do’t put this Rex it’s more than clear Ledford cutt a deal with the Bigboys. The people of rancho vista has been sold completely out.This neighborhood said time & time again no Walmart, what did they do put up a Deceptive sign like something good was coming to town. William why are you so excited about Walmart.

    • @Tom
      Where or when did I say I was ‘excited about Walmart’ in Rancho Vista?

      You just made that up.

      I have been saying that the folks who expected a Whole Foods or Gelson’s in that location are being unrealistic. Those companies don’t put a store in a residential neighborhood. They need a lot of customers and traffic and they would likely build near the Mall, if anywhere.

      Plus, it’s not going to be a typical Walmart but a supermarket like a Von’s or Albertson’s. There’s an Albertson’s already further up Rancho Vista Boulevard.

      So, Tom, what else are you going to make up?

  14. All these westsiders complaining meanwhile the Eastside hasn’t had any development in the last 3 years since Target and Vallarta moved there.

    • @Jay.
      What do you want on the eastside? WHAT do you want?

      I was just there to eat at Buffalo’s Cafe, which was great. I’ll be going there a lot. There is a lot of new businesses on 47th Street East plus the Dry Town water park.
      And, the parking lots look pretty busy.

      Sheesh. You guys keep whining so much. I sometimes wonder if y’all are Rex’s people sent to to complain about Palmdale.

    • Splitting Palmdale into “westsiders” and “eastsiders” is completely unproductive. If we don’t see Palmdale as one, we become part of the problem, not a part of the solution. We need to be focused on responsible development on both sides of town.

  15. This is so funny to me those that used to say I live on the West Side/Rancho vista not anymore You live next to Walmart how does it feel to overlook Walmart what a view.The world is a Ghetto

    • It’s odd to hear people complain about how awful the entire Antelope Valley is. I guess they don’t realize that there are nice areas and nice businesses in Palmdale.

      I live in a nice neighborhood. It’s not gated or anything, just a tract home built in 1990. I have great neighbors and shop and eat in clean and pleasant places on both sides of town. Even some older businesses on Palmdale Boulevard are nice.

      I guess the people doing the loudest complaining live, eat and shop in the worst parts of any town and think the world looks like that.

      It’s like they drive a beat up old car and complain about how bad the roads are. Or buy their beer at a gas station mini-mart and complain about the people loitering. The loudest complainers seem to attract the most problems and not the other way around.

      There are oil wells on the campus of Beverly Hills High School. So, nobody can live in a perfect paradise forever.

      • If you think Palmdake and Lancaster are the same, take the 14 fwy north. exit Ave I. Turn right. Drive to 30th East. Turn right. Go to J. Turn right. Drive to 30th west. Along tour drive count the number of trashy buildings, closed businesses and thugs you see. Palmdale is not perfect but light years ahead of Lancaster. Shopping districts? Compare the BLVD to 10th West and Ave P. Lancaster has the clear advantage when it comes to panhandlers, bums, crime and tattoo parlors.

        • And, it’s only going to get worse for Lancaster. I can’t think of any way that it can catch up to Palmdale. That’s what has made Rex Parris so freaking crazy the last few years.

          He knows it’s a lost cause as far as amenities, so he has to boast and brag and boast. And, brag.

          What desirable major retailer or restaurant is going to locate in Lancaster in the future? If a Whole Foods or Gelson’s ever comes to the AV, it will be in Palmdale. Trader Joe’s could have gone to Lancaster as the land/rent would have been even cheaper. But, it didn’t. Same with other businesses. Even though it’s cheaper in Lancaster and, supposedly more business friendly, why did Chic Fil A go to Palmdale first.

          When it was announced that Dick’s Sporting Goods store was coming to the Mall, people complained on this site that it would put the Sport’s Chalet out of business. Really? Consider that there are at least 2 or 3 major jewelery stores in the Mall and one at the intersection. Dillard’s AND Macy’s. Claim Jumper next to Yard House. Home Depot a couple blocks from Lowe’s.

          Despite all the complaining, Palmdale has a decent level of household income as shown by the vitality of the AV Mall after several bad recessions. And, it’s going strong after the recent near world wide depression.

          How can that be, critical people? Twenty five years ago, Palmdale had very little back then. It’s great to see a city grow and do well. Los Angeles would have sent their ‘problems’ to the AV anyway, even if nothing else was done.

        • Rivalry Palmdale vs Lancaster not going to matter much longer, w/population boom about to fill the area with lots of new people. It will be interesting to observe. I grew up in San Gabriel Valley and from 1950s I watched it turn from paradise into the blecchh it is today, so change is in store here, what it will be? I sure hope not a stream of Walmarts.

        • You’ve gotta give Lancaster credit for the Boulevard. I love dining there. Very classy and beautifully done.

          • If I give Lancaster ‘credit’ for the BLVD, who do I ‘blame’ for the lousy parking, confusing cross streets, proliferation of homeless and panhandlers, crime, lack of real shopping and odd mix of businesses? It got a much needed facelift, but the parking was obviously not thought out. Besides when you get out of your car you risk getting hit if another is passing. Lipstick on a pig.

          • @AV Truth

            If you are Rex Parris, you ‘blame’ Mayor Ledford for the mess that the BLVD is.

            As for Debbie thinking it’s ‘classy’, some people’s taste is all in their mouths.

            I notice that ol’ Rex doesn’t talk much about the BLVD as it goes downhill. He’s all ‘solar’ now.

      • I totally agree, William! Palmdale has a fantastic quality of life. Every time I am forced to go “down below” I have renewed appreciation for this town. Their kids come up to our parks to play soccer because they don’t even have places for their kids to play. For this town to stay nice though, people need to care and stay active. That includes complaining and doing something about businesses or apartment complexes that we don’t want or need. The Westside of town remains nice and is getting nicer because we have lots of active neighbors who will stand up for what they believe in.

  16. I find it amusing that so many people are complaining about a store that has saved a lot of people, a lot of money by selling products cheaper than their competition and yet…those same people are praising the new store that charges 2-3 times more for a cup of coffee! Nobody forces anyone to work at WM for the wages they offer. Nobody forces anyone to pay the ridiculous prices at Starbucks. I for one, refuse to learn a complete new “coffee language” for the privilege of paying $4.50 for a cup of mud, and that’s what it taste like, in my opinion. I’ll take a Dutch Bros. coffee, thank you. If enough people are upset by WM putting in a grocery store, they won’t patronize the store, if the store doesn’t do enough business to make it worthwhile, it will close.

    • It’s hard to believe that few or no residents of Rancho Vista shop at the 10th Street West Walmart at all. It always seems busy and there’s one on the east side to service that area.

      Are the people complaining being hypocritical? Do they really buy diapers and Tide detergent and other non-grocery items at the Von’s on RV Blvd. and 30th Street West? If not, then where?

  17. Why is everyone complaining about a friendly store? This store is gonna bring jobs to families that want to provide for their families!!!

    • Walmart in the hart of a neighborhood like this sad sad sad. I hope the local people don’t spend 1 penny there

    • Inglewood ca voted and fought like hell to keep them out and won, If the ghetto don’t want Walmart what does that tell you. Please Please Please people of this area let us organizes and push this big nasty cheap low no class upscale 90 cent store out. By the way I’m a black man do’t want to go BACK Lol and Walmart is Back

  18. Who is this “William” guy responding to all the comments anyway.

    My two cents: It is very disappointing to see another Walmart related store in the area and now moving west. This is why the Antelope Valley will continue leave a bad taste in your mouth when telling others where you live. We do need a Sprouts or Fresh n Easy. Those would fit better but it is what it is. The success of the new market will depend on how many people will shop there. At least the area is finally getting developed.

    • This is the ‘William guy’, Monica M.

      How many times do you and others have to be told that the city can’t force a business to locate here, there or anywhere?

      You can ‘wish’ all you want for a Sprouts or Fresh n Easy, which I’ve never heard of while others wish for a Whole Foods or Gelson’s.

      Why don’t you throw a coin in a fountain to make your wishes come true?

      You do realize from reading all the comments that no matter what goes there, someone will complain about it and ‘wish’ for something else. That’s how people are.

    • Hi Monica. I agree with you about Walmart, but the AV never leaves a bad taste in my mouth! When I worked “down below” I heard people bashing the AV all the time. My quality of life is heads and shoulders above what I had in the LA area. We have fantastic schools, great shopping, good restaurants, and fabulous parks that THEY come up here to use. When it comes to living here or in the house we still own in LA, I will always choose the AV. I couldn’t even send my kids to public school down there!

  19. It would have been nicer to see a Whole Foods Super Market come to town. We have to many Walmart Stores in this valley already! On the other hand it will be nice to have that starbucks ;)

    • @Lisa
      It is unrealistic to expect a Whole Foods to locate in a small shopping center in Rancho Vista. They need more traffic than a from the adjacent neighborhood.

      If they were ever to locate in the Antelope Valley, it would likely be near the Mall where there is a lot of traffic and business activity.

      I’ve been to the one on Santa Monica Boulevard and it’s hard to find a parking place at times, the lot is so full. That’s how they like it.

      I have to keep repeating that till people catch on.

      I’m confident that Mayor Ledford will contact them when the time is right.

      • I have lived in the Av for over 8 years and I have never been to the AV Mall, Kohls or any of the other big business that inhabit Palmdale, I find the parking lots horrible, the traffic on 10th st west and Rancho is atrocious, I get off the 14 south and make a left, never a right. Or I take 10th st west to that area. If I cannot buy it online or at Walmart then I don’t need it.

        • So? I guess they don’t need your business since their parking lots are full and there’s so much traffic on 10th Street West and Rancho Vista Boulevard heading for the Mall and thereabouts.

          But, thanks for sharing.

          • NO They sure don’t need it. The stores seem to be doing just fine with out me, and you are most welcome, I love sharing my opinions.

        • Where do you live, soapbox?

          Your driving directions sound like you’re coming from Lancaster via 10th street West.

          If so, why aren’t you shopping there?

  20. I spoke to the developer once they broke ground. I live in the neighborhood. A little disappointed by the Walmart grocery store, but am happy with the drive-thru Starbucks that will be there. Those are the only confirmed businesses so far. They’re also going to develop across Town Center Drive. But, there’s no plans to when that will happen. The Walmart “Neighborhood Market” is new to SoCal so who knows how that will go. The logical choice would have been to put a healthier food place like Fresh N’ Easy or Whole Foods, etc. But, they went in this direction. I’m just worried about the traffic on Rancho Vista, they’re putting up a new traffic light on Rancho Vista and they’ll probably put up another light right by the construction, so more waiting times. Just some info from what I’ve found out.

    • I haven’t been that way in a while (I actually had to google map the intersection to remind myself where it was) but from what I remember, straight traffic is constant there, with only a stop sign on Town Center for left and right turns. With the business being put there, a light will be a safety necessity. Traffic can come around that bend at a fairly high rate of speed.

    • More traffic lights? Good. Rancho Vista Boulevard is a raceway and I hate to drive it.

      It seems inconsistant with a residential area to have a high speed road smack in the middle of it. It must be like living next to a freeway. Traffic lights will help.

  21. Wal-Mart Grocery is DIFFERENT than the Wal-Mart store……..its just grocery……I’ve been in one they are nice….and its going in a nice neighborhood….I TRUST my neighbors will keep it NICE!! as for Winco’s pay…….their starting wage is .50 more per hour……NOT a whole lot more than Wal-Mart….And nobody will make you shop there! I’m Glad the Starbucks is going in too!!

  22. Walmart doesn’t bring living wage jobs! My son works for Walmart Full time and can’t afford to live on his own. Not to mention they treat their employee’s like crap!! We need Jobs out here that can support a family and a Mortgage…. Retail Jobs don’t do that!! This is not what Greg Anderson envisioned…. He meant for it to be a city like you see back east or elsewhere….. Walmart was not in his plan!

  23. Last thing we need is another WalMart. YUCK!!! Been living in Rancho Vista for 23 years and always been proud of our community. There goes the neighborhood…

  25. The sad thing about all of the people complaining is that they don’t realize how much walmart does give back to the community and that they DON’T put local businesses, “out of business”.
    Hell, they enabled me to start my LOCAL BUSINESS!

  26. Great, are the 65 jobs this center will bring all minimum wage jobs? How many jobs will be lost if this Walmart forces Vons and/or Albertsons out of business? I like JL but find it hard to believe he’s excited about this. Sad if he is.

    • How many Walmarts do we need out here?? Jobs??? My son works for Walmart and can’t afford to live on his own….We need real jobs out here!! Jobs that can support a Mortgage and Family! Retail jobs don’t do that! If you are going to put in a Grocery Store out here…How about a higher quality one?? Like Gelson’s, Whole Foods or Mothers??

      • @Marcella.
        You don’t seem to know much about business, do you?

        Those upscale stores you wish for might come to the AV in the future but they wouldn’t be viable right now to only serve you and a couple of others.

        And, a Whole Foods or Gerson’s wouldn’t locate in that area anyway with little or no other business activity nearby.

        People are so funny. They buy a 2,500 to 3,000 square foot house in Rancho Vista that would cost twice as much down below but expect a Gelson’s like they live south of the boulevard in Encino.

        Sure, those upscale stores would be nice but it isn’t realistic to expect them to locate here just yet.

      • I would never expect to work at Wal-Mart and make “living” wage. I’ve always believed a job that earned enough to have a mortgage was was more than just an entry level retail job. Have people honestly forgot that you have to “work” at the American dream? Build a career, get an education. It’s like the $15 minimum wage illusion, these are stepping stone jobs to gain experience.

        • So, it’s OK with you that people who work full-time at minimum wage jobs, the average age of them is 29 or so, need to use food stamps that you are paying for?

          That’s what has happened with Walmart and fast food giants. The taxpayers are subsidizing their low wages with social benefits such as food stamps.

          Good deal for those businesses.

          • I absolutely don’t agree with easing the minimum wage. Most businesses already states that if they were to raise it jobs would be cut to pay the higher wages. Most of those jobs are meant to be held my teens. Minimum efforts and minimum education equates to minimum wage. I feel bad for the people who went to a trade school like medical assistants, xray techs, and dental assistants. I know quite a few who do not get $15 dollars an hour. Why should a fast food worker make any more. Hell I support the fast food strike. Maybe well see some of them close shop(unlikely, but I sure wish)
            I would rather see the same efforts put into attempting to increase minimum wage go to raise the military pay.

          • @Reelist

            You are incorrect but that didn’t stop you from posting.

            The median age for fast food workers is 29 5 years old.

            It’s really rich that business owners would fear that they would have to cut jobs if the minimum wage was raised. Cutting jobs would mean fewer workers to pay, so what’s their problem with that? They are always trying to get by with fewer workers anyway, not hire more for the good of the community.

            Actually, they fear that higher wages would EAT INTO THEIR PROFITS. But, they can’t say THAT.

        • @Scott

          You don’t seem to be aware that you are paying taxes to support social service benefits to low wage workers like at Walmart who need to use food stamps, etc.

          Yes, Scott, you are subsidizing Walmart’s low wages while the Walmart heirs are worth many billions. That tells me that their prices are still too high. Enjoy.

          Meanwhile, after hundreds of thousands of manufacturing jobs have left the country, where do you expect people to work? Remember, we are now largely a ‘service economy’ because that’s where the jobs are.

          Henry Ford paid his workers more than the prevailing wages at the time SO THEY COULD BUY HIS PRODUCTS. Today’s companies want to pay their employees as little as possible hoping other companies will pay more to buy the former’s products, THE EXACT OOPPOSITE OF FORD’S THINKING and why the economy is so sluggish. Americans don’t have a lot of money to buy things.

          “Build a career. Get an education.” You aren’t aware that college graduates are having a hard time finding jobs??? Or, that there are more people looking for jobs than there are openings.

          Think before you type next time.

  27. Granted, I am not pleased at all for Walmart Neighborhood Market or anymore Walmart stuff. However, a coffee place and restaurant sounds great. Peet’s Coffee? Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf? Anyone know?

      • There are already two Starbucks within 5 minutes of that location (by Sams club and by Lowes). I’m not one to complain about saturation if it is bringing jobs, but it does seem a bit of overkill.

  28. To those complaining about “another Wal-Mart or Starbucks”. If there were other businesses interested in coming in, Whole Foods (laughable), Sprouts etc they would have come before the city just as Wal-Mart did. A city cannot deny a business if it meets all the criteria simply because they’re hoping someone else might eventually be interested. Can you say lawsuit? I do recall, a while back, when this came to the city and the only people against it were the union workers at Von’s. A business will not build if it isn’t somewhat sure they’ll be successful. I’m sure if there were other options the city would have considered them as well. My guess is that there were NO other businesses wanting to come in. If you don’t like it don’t shop there. Simple as that!

    PS You might want to research a little deeper on Wal-Mart. I was pretty anti WM until I recently learned what they are doing for veterans, their commitment to sourcing American made products and strides in energy efficiency.

    • Who’swho–I’m a veteran, and they do all of what you said on the backs of all their employees.

    • Why is the idea of a Whole Foods laughable? That developer himself would probably tell you that the AV is an area with one of the highest rates of disposable income in Southern California and a high level of education. Granted, Whole Foods would probably want to be in a higher traffic area than the RV center, but “LA people” do a good job spreading the myth that this is a one horse town without noticing the filth, crime, and congestion in their own backyard. It took a lot of work to get Trader Joe’s because of that erroneous perception when we had the population to support it. This town is definitely ready to support a high end market!

  30. Why another Wal-mart ? get us some real jobs that matter we have several Wal-marts inst two enough for Palmdale? Get some other stores down here like Target at least they give back.

      • In my experiences, Walmart is far cheaper than Winco. The only reason I go there is for stuff from the bulk bins, like flour, rice, and spices.

      • Yeah your right forgot! Well if everyone is against this new place we can all make a stand and not shop there. People do make a difference. Just no one these days stand for what is right.

  31. Just curious. Are all the people complaining about another Walmart also supporting raising the minimum wage to $10.10 nationally?

  33. Sad shaking of head…
    Hate to see the Waltons strengthening their monopolistic grip on the AV. I’ve always known that we don’t have the demographics for a Whole Foods here but I held a secret wish that the Whole Wheatery might build another community supporting store in the Rancho Vista area. They have the best organics in town. This Walmart Neighborhood (Destroying) Market will never get my dollars.

    • I’m pretty sure that every service or item offered at a Walmart is available from multiple other locations in the Valley (albeit, at a price difference.) Far from a monopoly.

    • Hi Lava. Good point, but believe it or not, we have more disposable income on the West side of town than most areas of LA with a pretty high education rate (perhaps due to aerospace?). It blew my mind when I heard the stat straight from someone in the know, but it makes sense when you consider the lower real estate prices. What has limited us in the past is the number of houses when they do the “flybys” for density. Now that we meet that criteria too, we are fighting the stereotype that this is a hick town in the middle of nowhere. I’m with you regarding Whole Foods.

  34. When I first moved up here, I tried to be positive and open minded but really, after seeing how some people proceed around here, and how their poor mentality and ignorance drives them to do stupid things, I am not surprised to have another Wal-Mart in town, if the state of California wants to have a “rehabilitated rapist” live in town don’t expect to have fine vendors in town…

    • It is just the grocery part of a Walmart, same signage, same products. Google what it is and you can see images of the outside and inside of the ones already complete…. I think they will do fine and the rest of the shopping center will be nice….. but I would have really loved it if it was a Whole Foods since I like their food bar for a quick lunch….. and items I can only find there….. oh well….

  36. For everyone complaining about the choices of stores…you may notice on the sign that it says “Pads and Spaces Available”. You are more than free to contact the developer, a franchise of your choice, and pay for whichever store you would like to bring here and manage. Just an available option, you know, instead of telling someone else how they can spend THEIR money.

  37. Don’t like these choices at all! How unimaginative! Sure would have been nice if they asked our opinion. We are already surrounded by grocery stores and coffe houses. I guess the developers didn’t think to send anybody around the neighborhoods to ask what would be nice to have within walking distance.

    • Actually, they did. They went to each house behind the new development to listen to concerns and held a meeting at a local elementary school that was pretty well attended. People indicated they really wanted a drive-through Starbucks (done), and a sit down restaurant. People also wanted a Whole Foods Market, but you can’t make the store locate here. Maybe someday. It took years to get Trader Joe’s, but eventually they came around.

  38. It IS a Walmart, it will say WALMART on the front of it, sells the same things Walmart sells….. Basically it is the Grocery section of a Super Walmart by itself….. So it will be a Vons/Alberstons size Walmart grocery store…. Not hard to research on the internet, look at images of what the stores look like in other states and the ones here in California….

  39. I guess EVERYONE read tht wrong they didn’t say another Walmart, they said a grocery store that’s family to Walmart !

    • Walmart Neighborhood Market is just Wal-mart without the dry goods. It’s still a Wal-mart, owned and operated by the richest welfare recipients in the nation, the Waltons.

  40. Just what this valley needs…another Starbucks and another Walmart.
    Really Palmdale? Why not try to bring in something we don’t already have an overload of?

  41. Why another Walmart when we already have Walmart in Palmdale area!? This is the most disappointing news I have ever heard! Heck NO! Please change the other option — Why not choose more healthier food stores and popular/well-liked stores !!??? Walmart will definitely hurt home values tremendously. Please re-consider to remove Walmart and pick something a lot better making customers a lot happier!! Pretty please!!!!!!!!!!

      • google what a Walmart Neighborhood Market is, it is a grocery section of Walmart by itself…. they have Walmart on the front of the store, use the same signage inside and will attract the lovely Walmart patrons…. not a big deal… but it IS a Walmart

  42. Why another Walmart? Is no other Markets or types of business out there. Palmdale is full of Walmarts, Hotels,and Restaurants. Restaurants that run out of business as fast as they open. We need good paying jobs in Palmdale

      • “family” to walmart means “family”. Is your sister-in-law not ur family? guess again, ur sister-in-law is ur sister-in-law & family until the day one of u die. So “family to walmart” is walmart. I guess u don’t read correctly either or know law. “subsidiaries/family” are under the umbrella of the same company. take a law class maybe u really will know everything then.

  43. If they won’t give us a voice in this, we can speak with our money. We can boycott it collaboratively and see if they go out of business. Of all the stores that might have benefited the community, Walmart was chosen? I don’t think this was Gregg Anderson’s vision, he was far too innovative.

  44. Another Walmart, really? Wow so unfortunate for those home owners. It was such a nice neighborhood tucked up against the golf course and a mile from the mall. Now these home values will suffer. I sure wish the decision makers had to live near their decisions.

  46. So disappointing. Who wants a walmart?! Yuck! Why not a Fresh and Easy, Trader Joes, Sprouts, Whole Foods? No one wants the junk that Walmart pushes! If you want this area to stay upscale, then put upscale stores in it! Developers, you really can do better than this! You should’ve at least polled the residence you are supposedly providing for. Geesh!!

    • Rancho Vista Homeowners did a poll on their website about 3 years ago and gave the results to the developer in person. People wanted a Whole Foods and a drive through Starbucks along with a higher end fast food place along with a sit down restaurant. People also specifically said they didn’t want Walmart.

      • Then who decided to put a WalMart there? I really wanna know who’s behind this!!! This does not fit our community – we want Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s!!

        • The developer did. Their land, their money, their perogative to ignore the wishes of the community after they were told what people wanted. If the Walmart fails, they have no one to blame but themselves. I certainly hope they aren’t surprised by the controversy.

      • A Whole Foods would have been nice, but really. Are people so naive as to expect a Whole Foods to locate in the middle of a residential area? The ones I’ve seen are right in the heart of cities and commercial centers not out in the outskirts like a neighorhood mini-mart.

        If a Whole Foods were ever to locate in the AV, it would probably be near the Antelope Valley Mall and surrounding area.

        It’s called synergy. I’m surprised people don’t know that.

  47. Hopefully it will be short lived. Who needs another store that fills their shelves with food that has been genetically altered or so full of fillers it isn’t worth eating. Not the AV
    Our only hope is that they build so many Walmarts that they put themselves out of business. Oh what a glorious day that would be.

    • Unless our demographics change significantly we will not see a Whole Foods. Residents of the AV do not meet their income or education requirements to build here.

    • And, what small business would that be, Bob? There aren’t any businesses in that area.

    • As opposed to shopping at the large corporate grocery stores “around the area” such as Vons or Albertsons? Or the nearest discount/value grocery options of Target or… Walmart Supercenter? Or even Trader Joe’s that is part of a large international corporation with a reputation for cutting costs and vendor margins to the bone at least as much if not more than Walmart?

  51. The Walmart neighborhood market seems like a nice concept. It will be one of a kind in this area. Ala Trader Joes. But if it is another Starbucks I will Frap my pants.