Now, as the prospect of a new Trader Joe’s emerges and Vons shares in a major makeover, Montrose may soon have two attractive options where residents previously had none.
“I think it’s beneficial to the town, both of them,” said Jean Maluccio, president of the Crescenta Valley Chamber of Commerce. “I think they’re both great ideas.”
The shopping center and Vons, at 2039 Verdugo Blvd., will be refashioned from their current Spanish-style to a “mountain-craftsman look,” Howard said.
A rock-face covering will be added to the walls and some parking spaces will be rearranged to accommodate other changes, he said.
The renovations are not only meant to upgrade the facility, which had not had significant improvements since it was built in 1971, but to draw more shoppers to the center, he said.
Green Howard partnered with Vons to plan an outdoor extension to the front of the store, which would cover a seating area and possible flower shop, Howard and Vons spokesman Carlos Illingworth said.
“It’s going to be a very quality store,” Howard said. “It’s going to be a hell of an improvement from what we have. I’m excited and they’re excited.”
Vons’ interior “lifestyle remodel” will include a fresh paint job, new signs and flooring, energy efficient lighting and new decoration, Illingworth said.
The store will also expand its bakery and produce sections and add a new floral department, he said.
“We want to maintain our presence in Montrose and provide our customers there with a better shopping experience,” he said.
