Beyond the external beauty of the complex, certain things are still uncertain. How will the construction of the mall affect traffic congestion? Living in Los Angeles County, there seems to be no escape from this type of progress and consumer-driven development. It remains to be seen what type of consumers flood the Americana. Will it be locals, or will people who’d otherwise go to Pasadena and Hollywood will pay us a visit for their shopping and entertainment? Or is it going to be a combination?
Will some of the locals decide this is too much for them, and choose to make Utah or Oregon their new home? And in the long run, will the new visitors be inclined to make Glendale their home?
The possible changes in demographics will be an interesting side effect of the Americana. Perhaps the changes in commerce and shopping habits will also have a direct effect on our approach to politics and social issues.
The decision to bring the Americana to Glendale will have long-term ramifications on the social, economic and physical landscape of our city. No wonder there were very strong and opposing arguments regarding this issue before construction began.
Change may do us a world of good. I cringe when a person proudly claims his mentality and worldview has never changed.
Having an evolving mind, as opposed to a stagnant one, should be considered a virtue. The fusion of the old and the new will make Glendale a better place.
One thing is certain, we’ll have better-dressed residents.
PATRICK AZADIAN is a writer and the creative director of a local marketing and graphic design studio living in Glendale. He may be reached at respond@ fromthemargins.net.
