El Monte, a bustling working-class community in Los Angeles County, is undergoing a transformation thanks to a series of redevelopment initiatives. Under the leadership of City Manager Alma Martinez’s team and City Council, abandoned and underutilized buildings are being repurposed into economic hubs, attracting major retailers, restaurants, and coffee houses.
“As City Manager, I am committed to fostering economic growth and enhancing the shopping experience for our residents. These economic development initiatives will bring a myriad of benefits to El Monte’s residents, including diverse shopping options and quick-service dining experiences that cater to the needs and preferences of the community,” Martinez said.
In October 2024, retail giant Target is set to arrive in El Monte, bringing a diverse range of shopping options to the residents. The former Sears Outlet building and two adjacent vacant retail buildings located at 3610 Peck Road will be converted into a massive retail complex that spans over 127,879 square feet. Construction is already in progress, and the site is expected to have ample parking capacity, accommodating up to 372 vehicles. Target Optical, CVS Pharmacy, Starbucks, and Ulta Beauty are some of the anticipated tenants set to occupy the new Target complex, providing the residents with a diverse range of shopping options.
El Monte’s culinary landscape is also set to be enhanced with the forthcoming opening of Chick-fil-A at 3340 Santa Anita Avenue this spring. This beloved fast-food chain will offer 851 square feet of space, accommodating 98 indoor seats and 44 outdoor patio seats. Additionally, a drive-thru capable of serving up to 29 vehicles will ensure convenience for customers on the go. This development is expected to create up to 120 full-time and part-time jobs, providing valuable employment opportunities for the El Monte community while generating an annual sales tax revenue of up to $113,000, contributing to the City’s growth and prosperity.
The El Monte Center Drive-Thru Pad redevelopment project is another initiative aimed at revolutionizing the dining experience in the City. Located at 3748 Peck Road, the project will welcome three popular food chains: In-N-Out, Starbucks, and Raising Cane’s. Enhancements include revitalized landscaping, outdoor seating areas, and the integration of green spaces, providing a welcoming environment for customers. A public hearing for this project is scheduled to be held within the next five months, ensuring community involvement in the decision-making process.
“These projects contribute to job creation, offering employment opportunities for both full-time and part-time positions. Additionally, the expected sales tax revenue generated from these developments will contribute significantly to the growth and prosperity of the City, enabling the implementation of further community-driven initiatives,” Martinez said.
Part of El Monte’s economic success is due to the City’s strong partnership with its police department, which has a history of community policing programs that integrate business and public safety efforts. The City has invested over $1.8 million in technological resources to equip the El Monte Police Department with cutting-edge tools like ALPRS cameras and state-of-the-art UAS technologies. By fostering a safe community, the City is able to create an environment where businesses thrive. This trend will only improve as city leaders and the community continue to prioritize public safety and strategic partnerships.
“This trend will only improve as city leaders and the community continue to prioritize public safety and strategic partnerships,” Martinez added. “El Monte’s unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth and enhancing the shopping experience for residents ensures a prosperous future for the city and its community.”