Keep reading the updating new listings everyday from different resource.
I am a very picky agent, only few land listings I would like to recommend to my clients. ( I am not like a sales person selling whatever listings in the market) I do not know when is the real estate bottom, the only answer I can give my client is 50/50 chance, and try to get the best location.
There are 2 land in west Lancaster now list around $30,000/Acre, zoned R7000 which are my top choice to share with my client. Contact Me for detail information.
Another lot lists under $7,000/acre close to 25th east Lancaster good for long term investment.
Contact me and let me know your budget and prefer area, I will check and give you the update information.
Good Luck on your Land Investment!
Learn to Learn , it is the first step on your Land Investment, it is also the first step on invest everything.
You are an Investor, not a Gambler. You shall have your investment plan and goal.
Start Your land Investment from Read my website: http://www.IRA4Land.com/Land
You will learn: Land Banking Basic
IRA Companies
Other Land Companies
Lancaster Land Investment News...
Start to learn first, join all the seminar and even E-seminar, Check my Audio /Video Collections you will love it.
You will love it.
I just added new features to all my listings, click the listing name and you can view the maps and detail information of the lot.
I believe it helps on selling your land.
Any suggestion, please feel free to contact me.
Alice's Land Listings
I am waiting for this report every year. Now you can download the new 2008 Roundtable report in http://www.aveconomy.org/NEW/Studies.html
You can also find the report from 2000, download and compare, you will find the growth of the Antelope Valley. Check the page 6/7 , Lancaster & Palmdale population, 2007 Milestones. As a investor, you must know these information.
There is a video in MercuryNews.com , you can preview one of the land in LandAuction.com.
Also please read: Auction properties: These lots are cheap for a reason
It is open to all the Land Investors, Real Estate Agents, Developers...
Just join the group: http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/landinvestors/
And you can post the messages ( your good / bad Land Investment experience, Land Investment Questions, News, Your Land Listings , Looking for the Partners to invest together...)
Hope this social group helps all our investors.
New! Alice's sharing you must read!
Alice read a lot everyday, and recommend you to read the good stuff.
Alice's sharing : http://www.IRA4Land.com/new
You will find new things everyday in Alice 's Google Reader.
Any questions you are interested in your investment, Alice will find the answer and share you the article Alice found:
Tax , Mortgage, REO Investment, Land Investment...
You can find lots of development & Planing information from the city's website. As a Real Estate Investor , it is very important. You will get the information of the population growth, street improvement, job opportunities.
No matter good news or bad news inside, explore and learn more helps you know more of your investment. I strongly recommend my clients put the money in after doing their homework. Your investment return should be better than saving the money in the Bank or buying stock or Bond, if you choose to be a careful investor and invest at the fair market price.
http://cityoflancasterca.org/
It is very easy to find the city 's website, you can use google or yahoo search , city of Lancaster. I checked the website once or twice every week.
Click Department & Service and choose Planning, there is information of General Plan 2020 ( old plan in 1997) and 2030 ( which is still in the planing status).
I want to ...then choose download, you will get the zoning information, old city boundary map , zoning map ( Central & Westside)...
In What's New, check the city news & Updates, weekly Road Closure...
More you can find and learn, just spend little time to click and view...
Pretty impressive Commercial, Retail & Industruial projects in Lancaster :
Lancaster:
The Promenade at Amargosa Creek is a new 115-acre, mixed-use development currently in the planning stages. The Center will be located in the thriving 10th Street West corridor surrounded by Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse, Target, Costco Wholesalers and the Lancaster Auto Mall.Also Included in the master plan is a 30-acre expansion of auto dealerships along Avenue K-8 across form the existing dealerships within the Lancaster Auto Mall; 535,000 square feet of retail space, 88,000 square feet of pad space for major anchors, restaurant and other retail uses; 165,000 square feet of hotel space; 471,000 square feet of office space; and 67,000 square feet of theater space for a total of 1.326 million square feet of proposed commercial development.
2. Lancaster Town Center
Strategically located at Avenue K and 10th Street West, the new Lancaster Town Center is ideally situated to serve this thriving community with over 67,000 vehicle drive-bys per day.
The new $40 million center is anchored by a 180,000-square-foot Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse, with an additional 150,000 square feet of retail space available for development.
The Lancaster Town Center was developed by Seabury Lancaster Investments of San Francisco in a public/private partnership with the City of Lancaster's Redevelopment Agency. The Property is represented by CB Richard Ellis
3. Lancaster Spectrum
Lancaster’s new Spectrum Center will combine shopping, lodging and dining opportunities in one convenient location adjacent to the Antelope Valley Freeway. The 100-room La Quinta Inn of Lancaster will anchor the northwest corner of the center with available pads ranging from 2,500 to over 12,000 square feet. Anchor retail space and adjacent shops will total over 87,000 square feet. Lancaster Spectrum is being developed by Martin Properties of Westlake Village, California. The company has a diverse portfolio of investment properties including office buildings, medical and surgical centers, retail shopping centers and state-of-the-art self-storage facilities throughout the Antelope Valley as well as Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ. 4. Lane Ranch Twon Center 35 Acre retail center at Ave L & 60th St. West 5. Downtown Lancaster Downtown Lancaster Specific Plan 6. Front Row Center Lancaster’s Front Row Center is a leisure time oriented shopping and entertainment complex that includes Clear Channel Stadium, Cinemark Theatres, two new Hilton brand hotels, Fresco II Mediterranean bistro and Johnny Reb’s BBQ restaurant.Newly expanded at 27th Street West and Lancaster Boulevard, Front Row Center offers prime anchor opportunities for those who act soon 7. Valley Central Way Valley Central Way is taking on a whole new look. The City and the center’s developers, Developers Diversified Realty, are investing $35 million in revitalizing the site that has served Lancaster residents since 1990. Anchored by a brand new Wal-Mart Supercenter the reinvented Valley Central Way offers over 125,600 square feet of all new retail space and three new restaurant pads. Valley Central Way is owned and managed by Developers Diversified Realty, a fully-integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) that develops, leases and manages shopping centers nationwide. 8. Lancaster Business Park The Antelope Valley's premier business address offers discriminating firms a prestigious location for their corporate presence. Offering sites from one-half to 15 acres, these fully improved light industrial parcels and quality office building sites provide a park-like master-planned environment. Home to 100 companies employing over 4,100 people, the Business Park has attracted many nationally known firms including Countrywide Home Loans, Deluxe, Inc., Federal Express, and Lance Camper. The Business Park offers relocating firms: Campus-like atmosphere Mature, professionally designed and maintained landscaping Fortune 500 neighbors All utilities, roads and improvements in place Convenient, low interest bond financing Fast-track specific plan for quick approvals Master EIR approved Appropriate for: Corporate Offices Light Industrial 9. Fox Field Industrial Corridor This 5,000-acre master-planned industrial complex provides an ideal destination for business wishing to obtain land for construction of large-scale facilities. Home to major distribution and support centers for both Rite Aid drug stores and Michaels arts and crafts suppliers, Fox Field offers: Great freeway access Parcels from one-half to 1,000 acres Flexible land use within master-planned guidelines Proximity to general aviation airport Strong expansion potential Environmental work completed Appropriate for: Warehouse Airport-oriented Firms Business Parks Freeway-oriented Corporate Headquarters 10. North Valley Industrial Center Suited for industrial and distribution centers requiring rail access, the North Valley Industrial Center offers manufacturers parcels from one-half to 100 acres with build-to-suit opportunities. Priced very affordably, the Industrial Center features: Central Location Adjacent to Sierra Highway Easy freeway access via Avenue H overpass Backbone infrastructure in place Appropriate for: Industrial Rail-oriented uses
Lancaster’s new Spectrum Center will combine shopping, lodging and dining opportunities in one convenient location adjacent to the Antelope Valley Freeway.
The 100-room La Quinta Inn of Lancaster will anchor the northwest corner of the center with available pads ranging from 2,500 to over 12,000 square feet. Anchor retail space and adjacent shops will total over 87,000 square feet.
Lancaster Spectrum is being developed by Martin Properties of Westlake Village, California. The company has a diverse portfolio of investment properties including office buildings, medical and surgical centers, retail shopping centers and state-of-the-art self-storage facilities throughout the Antelope Valley as well as Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ.
4. Lane Ranch Twon Center 35 Acre retail center at Ave L & 60th St. West
5. Downtown Lancaster Downtown Lancaster Specific Plan
6. Front Row Center
Lancaster’s Front Row Center is a leisure time oriented shopping and entertainment complex that includes Clear Channel Stadium, Cinemark Theatres, two new Hilton brand hotels, Fresco II Mediterranean bistro and Johnny Reb’s BBQ restaurant.Newly expanded at 27th Street West and Lancaster Boulevard, Front Row Center offers prime anchor opportunities for those who act soon
7. Valley Central Way
Valley Central Way is taking on a whole new look. The City and the center’s developers, Developers Diversified Realty, are investing $35 million in revitalizing the site that has served Lancaster residents since 1990. Anchored by a brand new Wal-Mart Supercenter the reinvented Valley Central Way offers over 125,600 square feet of all new retail space and three new restaurant pads. Valley Central Way is owned and managed by Developers Diversified Realty, a fully-integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) that develops, leases and manages shopping centers nationwide.
8. Lancaster Business Park
The Antelope Valley's premier business address offers discriminating firms a prestigious location for their corporate presence. Offering sites from one-half to 15 acres, these fully improved light industrial parcels and quality office building sites provide a park-like master-planned environment. Home to 100 companies employing over 4,100 people, the Business Park has attracted many nationally known firms including Countrywide Home Loans, Deluxe, Inc., Federal Express, and Lance Camper. The Business Park offers relocating firms: Campus-like atmosphere Mature, professionally designed and maintained landscaping Fortune 500 neighbors All utilities, roads and improvements in place Convenient, low interest bond financing Fast-track specific plan for quick approvals Master EIR approved Appropriate for: Corporate Offices Light Industrial
The Antelope Valley's premier business address offers discriminating firms a prestigious location for their corporate presence. Offering sites from one-half to 15 acres, these fully improved light industrial parcels and quality office building sites provide a park-like master-planned environment. Home to 100 companies employing over 4,100 people, the Business Park has attracted many nationally known firms including Countrywide Home Loans, Deluxe, Inc., Federal Express, and Lance Camper. The Business Park offers relocating firms:
Appropriate for:
9. Fox Field Industrial Corridor
This 5,000-acre master-planned industrial complex provides an ideal destination for business wishing to obtain land for construction of large-scale facilities. Home to major distribution and support centers for both Rite Aid drug stores and Michaels arts and crafts suppliers, Fox Field offers: Great freeway access Parcels from one-half to 1,000 acres Flexible land use within master-planned guidelines Proximity to general aviation airport Strong expansion potential Environmental work completed Appropriate for: Warehouse Airport-oriented Firms Business Parks Freeway-oriented Corporate Headquarters
This 5,000-acre master-planned industrial complex provides an ideal destination for business wishing to obtain land for construction of large-scale facilities. Home to major distribution and support centers for both Rite Aid drug stores and Michaels arts and crafts suppliers, Fox Field offers:
10. North Valley Industrial Center Suited for industrial and distribution centers requiring rail access, the North Valley Industrial Center offers manufacturers parcels from one-half to 100 acres with build-to-suit opportunities. Priced very affordably, the Industrial Center features: Central Location Adjacent to Sierra Highway Easy freeway access via Avenue H overpass Backbone infrastructure in place Appropriate for: Industrial Rail-oriented uses
Suited for industrial and distribution centers requiring rail access, the North Valley Industrial Center offers manufacturers parcels from one-half to 100 acres with build-to-suit opportunities. Priced very affordably, the Industrial Center features:
Trivia question: Which South Bay city lays claim to more land outside its city limits than inside?
The answer: Santa Clara, which owns about 12,586 acres throughout the East Bay hills and Sierra Nevada. That's slightly larger than the entire city footprint, from the tip of Highway 237 to the foot of Valley Fair, from Calabazas Creek in Sunnyvale to Mineta San Jose International Airport.
Spurred by the oil crisis of three decades ago, the city in the late 1970s and early 1980s snapped up that outside land. In doing so, it became among the region's first to explore what's only recently become a cause celebre for cities big and small: Going green.
"It's become popular, hasn't it?" said Don Von Raesfeld, Santa Clara's city manager at the time, chuckling about the city's unusual buying spree. By planning a chain of wind, water and steam plants on land that otherwise would go undeveloped, the city hoped to protect customers of its hometown power company from massive rate hikes.
"The oil embargoes were starting and the prices were starting to shoot up, so we said, 'Shoot, if we develop our own resources and become independent from rising prices, maybe we could grab ahold of our own destiny,' " said John Roukema, acting director of city-owned Silicon Valley Power.
The idea of selling some of the land to generate money for a proposed San Francisco 49ers stadium surfaced briefly this year. But city officials now say no city land should be used to help finance a stadium; they are as committed as ever to using it for environmental purposes.
Santa Clara is no stranger to unusual land investments. Decades ago, it started buying hundreds of acres of land north of Highway 101, a move some critics scoffed at. Now? The city leases that land to major companies, sleek hotels and the Great America theme park. More recently, it's become the target of the 49ers' proposal to build a stadium.
When it comes to owning land outside city limits, at least one city in the Bay Area has more: the 29,888-acre city of San Francisco, which owns three times more land outside its borders. That land is used to generate alternative power. It's also used to deliver drinking water to millions in the region.
San Francisco's 92,111 acres are made up mostly of the 157 miles of pipelines carrying Hetch Hetchy water, providing the city with a continuous source of hydroelectric power. All of the city's energy is hydro-power and it's used to power the city's public buildings, light rail system and airport, said Betsy Rhodes, a spokeswoman for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission.
In contrast, other Santa Clara County cities own far less land outside their borders. Palo Alto owns 233 acres of wetlands in unincorporated San Mateo County. San Jose owns about 139 acres, mostly for its airport and for wetlands preservation. Sunnyvale owns 151 acres, using some for a now-closed landfill and the rest to store recycled water.
More than 30 years ago, Santa Clara built four water-power plants and worked with utilities owned by other cities to build plants that generate power through water, steam and coal. It also worked with Santa Clara University to explore using methanol as a fuel and eventually powered some of its trucks with the alcohol, Von Raesfeld said.
Jerry Jordan, executive director of the California Municipal Utilities Association, remembers when the city was making its acquisitions: "It was
Assessor 661-940-6700 Building & Safety 661-723-4440 Regional Planning 661-723-4475 Zoning 661-723-4475 Mapping Department 213-974-7352 Lancaster: City Hall 661-723-6000 Building & Safety 661-723-6144 Planning & Zoning 661-723-6100 Palmdale: City Hall 661-267-5100 Building & Safety 661-267-5353 Planning & Zoning 661-267-5200 Kern County: Planning 661-862-8600 Assessor 661-868-3485 Zoning 661-862-8618
Assessor 661-940-6700 Building & Safety 661-723-4440 Regional Planning 661-723-4475 Zoning 661-723-4475 Mapping Department 213-974-7352
City Hall 661-723-6000 Building & Safety 661-723-6144 Planning & Zoning 661-723-6100
Planning 661-862-8600 Assessor 661-868-3485 Zoning 661-862-8618
Lancaster named fastest-growing city in California
LANCASTER, May 1, 2007 - The City of Lancaster released statistical data today from the State of California's Department of Finance estimating Lancaster's January 1, 2007 population as 143,818, a growth rate of 3.93%. This is the highest percent change in traditional growth of any city in Los Angeles County. Santa Clarita shows a growth rate of 5.68%; however it is attributable to an annexation. Irwindale shows a growth rate of 6.16%, but only has a population of 1,655.
"We have worked hard to attract new residents and new businesses to our community. We welcome the new residents represented by this population report," said Lancaster Mayor Henry Hearns. "It is our goal to be the most desirable place to live, work, visit and play. We strive to deliver the most effective public services for the common good and look forward to the continued evolvement of our wonderful City."
City of Lancaster Population Growth Rate
1990
97,291
1991
102,026
4.87%
1992
104,655
2.58%
1993
107,675
2.88%
1994
115,524
7.28%
1995
118,457
2.53%
1996
121,023
2.12%
1997
123,197
1.80%
1998
127,136
3.20%
1999
130,079
2.30%
2000
132,402
1.79%
2001
122,145
2002
123,147
0.82%
2003
126,052
2.36%
2004
129,190
2.49%
2005
133,703
3.50%
2006
138,392
4.50%
2007
143,818
3.93%
Source: State Department of Finance May population estimates * 1990 population estimate from Census Bureau* All figures are for January 1st of the year indicated.
Shops, Restaurants and Points of InterestBy Bob Broad the av.org
A major icon on Avenue J is The Spa Shop located on the corner of J and 20th West. Their huge 9,000 square foot showroom features spas, gazebos, above ground swimming pools, pool tables and barbecues.
Restaurants on Avenue J include Murata Japanese Restaurant, Malhi's Indian Cuisine, Casa Lorente, La Villia Restaurant, Riding on A Wing & A Prayer Bar & Grill, Brussel's Deli, The Great Wall and Whoozits Restaurants.
Malhi's is one of two restaurants in the valley that serve Indian cuisine. They are also located in the AV Mall food court. The Great Wall Chinese restaurant is famous throughout the AV for their excellent food and dining experience. Murata is a popular sushi bar.
Whoozits Restaurant opened in 1999 and was formerly called the Whoozits Omelette House. They serve breakfast and lunch seven days a week and dinner on Friday and Saturday. They offer daily specials and their menu features 17 different omelettes.
Brussels' Deli, is a Boar's Head Premium Delicatessen and one of the few European deli's in the area. They've been an Antelope Valley favorite since 1994 and are well known for their homemade meatloaf and quality meats from New York. They also cater to our AV aerospace companies.
Mr. Cue's Billiards, located in the Shopper's Depo center, is one of the valley's hot spots offering 19 pool tables, tournaments and a full bar. The Balloon Factory has been specializing in weddings and special occasions for close to 15 years. They offer balloons for parties, special events, corporate and private functions.
Bases Cards & Comics is known by collectible enthusiasts throughout Southern California. They carry NBA, MLB, NFL and NHL Cards. The also offer comics, gaming, die cast cars and posters. Antelope Valley Florist has been serving the community since 1953 (over 50 years).
There are several specialty shops that will help you feel better. Dr. David Howard with High Desert Chiropractic Center has been helping AV residents with their back problems for over 20 years. Marjorie & Company Wellness Center offers massage, Lamaze classes, acupuncture, waxing and manicures and pedicures. They also have infant massage instruction. Desert Fountain Day Spa also has services that include massage, hydrotherapy, waxing, skin care and manicures and pedicures.
Century Plaza East, located on J & 20th East (Across from Wal-mart), is home to Stater Bros, McDonalds, Mario's Fine Jewelers, Sister's Act II Salon, AV Mobile, Modern Video, Plaza Thrift and Country Cafe.
Another major center is the East Lancaster Plaza located on J & Challenger Way (10th East). This center includes Albertsons, Dollar Tree, Rite Aid, Whoozits Restaurants, D's Pet City, American Post n Parcel & Gifts Galore. Also in this center are Ramon's Restaurant and The Yogurt Oasis.
Riding On A Wing & A Prayer is one of the best kept secrets in the Antelope Valley area. Not only is their food excellent, there is a lot of history to this little cafe located on 90th East and Avenue J. They are frequented by pilots from the youngest to the oldest and the boldest. All pilots are asked to sign their Pilot Wall. For fun, they feature live music, shuffleboard, karaoke on weekend evenings, and an eclectic selection of videos.
On Avenue K, the main centers include the Lancaster Commerce Center, Clocktower Plaza and the Lancaster Square Plaza. You'll also find some of the larger stores on 13 Street West, which is accessible from Avenue K or 10th Street West.
The 13th Street West stores include Ross Dress for Less, Boot Barn Western Wear, Big 5 Sporting Goods, Best Price Fashions, H&E, Pop's Unfinished Furniture and 24 Hour Fitness. The smaller stores include Vista Golf and Rapture Gold Christian Shop.
One unique point of interest on Avenue K is the Lancaster Golf Center, which is a little 9 hole par 3 golf course. The golf center is the only par 3 course in the area and is the only one with a covered driving range.
The Main Street Candle Shop recently opened their new store between Target and Big! Lots. They offer a large selection of Salt City Candles, Holders & Accessories and Custom Candle Gift Baskets. They were formerly located on 50th West in Quartz Hill and moved to this new location.
Another unique store is Crosstown Collectible Records, located in the Springfield Plaza. They opened in June 2004. They buy, sell and trade hard to find vinyl LP's, 45's, 60's, 70's & Early 80's.
The Clocktower Plaza, located on the west side of the 14 Freeway near 20th West, has several popular businesses that include Mario's Music, AV Patio & Fireside, Pilates, Second Wind Day Spa and Fun Time Paintball & Billiards. A Denny's Diner is also located in this center.
The Lancaster Commerce Center, located on the south side of Avenue K between 10th & 13th Street West, is one of the larger centers in the Antelope Valley area. The center has close to 40 stores and service businesses that include Target, Big! Lots and Ralph's.
The Lancaster Square Plaza is home to New Waves salon, Jim Scimonetti's Woodwind & Brass Repair and Live Again Thrift Store. Also located in this center is A Special Style Clothing Boutique, Mel Booker Music and Liz's Shoes.
There are several popular restaurants on Avenue K. Tokyo Steak offers the Teppenyaki style cooking (Benihanas) where the chef's entertain you as they cook your dinner in front of you. Don Cuco's and the Rusten House serve excellent Mexican food. The Royal Buffet is one of several oriental buffet's that offer a large selection of your favorites.
For years, the old Antelope Valley Fairgrounds was located on the corner of Division and Avenue I. In 2004, the fair officially moved to it's new facility to Avenue H located on the west side of the 14 Freeway. The fair is held annually in late August and early September with special events throughout the year.
On the west side of the 14 Freeway, you will find the Lancaster Municipal Stadium, which is a 4,500 seat baseball stadium and home to the Lancaster Jethawks. The stadium is located on the corner of Valley Central Way and Avenue I. Across the street is the Lancaster 22 Cinemark Theatres. Though the theatre is one of four Cinemark theatres in Palmdale and Lancaster, it is by far the largest.
Also located on West Avenue I is the AVRCD Tree Nursery and Arboretum. Located near 100th West, the nursery offers a variety of trees that are grown and do well in the high desert. These trees include deciduous trees, cypress trees, cedar trees, pine trees and eucalyptus trees. They also carry groundcovers, perennials and seeds.
About 15 miles west of Highway 14 on Avenue I is the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve. The reserve features over 1,700 acres of poppies and wildflowers which can be seen in the spring. The park has eight miles of trails and a visitor center with natural history displays.
The east side of the 14 Freeway offers numerous service and automotive shops. The California Highway Patrol, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Vallarta Market are also located on the east side. The Vallarta Market shopping center near 10th West features a few small clothing stores, Hong Kong Express, a donut store and the Tipsy Bull.
Avenue I offers several popular neighborhood bar & grills. These bars include the Britisher, the Longhorn Inn, the Trap and the Tipsy Bull. The Tipsy Bull has eight pool tables and two electronic dart boards with leagues. The Trap, located near 30th East, is a full bar with live music (classic rock) and karaoke.
There are a few unique stores on Avenue I. Smith Brother's Hobby Center are specialists in radio controlled planes, boats, cars, rocketry, trains and plastics. Next door is Myrlinda's Pet & Grooming Shop that carries exotic pets and supplies.
AV Ice Cream Distributors is another unique store located on the corner of Avenue I and Division across from the former AV Fairgrounds. They carry a wide assortment of party supplies that include pinatas, bulk candy, dry ice and fundraising equipment.
Places to eat on Avenue I include Crazy Otto's, Mom's Terryaki, Shaky's Pizza, Jack in the Box and In-n-Out Burger.
citing from antelopevalleyguide.com
Population growth has accelerated, and demand remains strong for both new and existing homes. Home sales in 2005 and 2006 remained at record levels, despite rising interest rates, but 2007 ushered in a long-anticipated real estate correction. Antelope Valley home sales are beginning to mirror other areas of Southern California, with prices falling as price appreciation slows. Real estate market forecasts are offered up by many, but the fact is that nobody can predict with any accuracy what its condition will be in either the short or long term. We’ll have to wait and see.
The region has experienced some important milestones in recent years. In Lancaster, a new $3.5 million University Center opened at the old fairgrounds, offering students advanced degree programs from California State University Bakersfield and California State University Fresno. Countrywide Home Loans occupied the second phase of its 13-acre loan-processing center, a new Lowe’s Home Improvement Center was built, and Regent Aerospace developed an 80,000-square-foot manufacturing facility. The Antelope Valley Fair & Alfalfa Festival now has new facilities at a new location.
As Lancaster’s population increases, new employers are moving in, taking advantage of a growing workforce, low land prices and an attractive location. Much of the city’s recent development has occurred in the Lancaster Business Park, home to more than 100 employers and more than 4,100 employees. Rapid expansion also is under way in the Fox Field Industrial Corridor and the North Valley Industrial Center. The new Lancaster Spectrum Center has been approved, including a La Quinta Inn and some 125,000 square feet of retail space. Another 250,000 square feet of spec buildings were under development in 2006. And, Antelope Valley Hospital is adding a 75,000-square-foot expansion.
Development of more than 500,000 square feet of entertainment, dining and retail space was under way at Lancaster’s Front Row Center project in 2007. The Children’s Center of the Antelope Valley’s new $2.5 million home in downtown Lancaster opened, and Fox Field Industrial Corridor added more businesses.
A major component of Lancaster’s redevelopment is the North Downtown Transit Village project, a so-called urban village that is helping to transform an aging area into a vibrant center of activity. The focus is more than 100 acres bounded by Avenue I, Lancaster Boulevard, the railroad tracks just east of Sierra Highway and 10th Street West. Within walking distance of a transportation hub, the project includes both single- and multi-family affordable housing, commercial development, expanded and improved parklands, and several community service organizations.
Palmdale also has experienced significant progress. Delta Scientific Corp. opened its second location in the Fairway Business Park, a multi-million-dollar sheriff’s station opened, and a $10-million transportation center was built. The city’s DryTown Water Park & Mining Co. opened, and an outdoor amphitheater and pool were built at Marie Kerr Park. Throughout the city, industrial, commercial and office space totaling more than 2 million square feet completed construction or was approved.
Palmdale’s Foreign Trade Zone expanded to include more than 90 acres at Mojave Airport, and the first phase of downtown revitalization was completed. The South Valley WorkSource Center opened. FedEx opened a 55,000-square-foot distribution center in the Fairway Business Park, and a new Wal-Mart Super Center opened. A multi-million-dollar renovation project occurred at the Antelope Valley Mall, and the massive 7,200-home Ritter Ranch development in the southwest valley got under way.
Construction was under way on a number of projects in the Palmdale Trade & Commerce Center, among them a 69,000-square-foot office condominium project, an 18,098-square-foot professional office building, and seven professional medical office buildings totaling 52,072 square feet. Construction was visibly under way on Palmdale’s long-awaited regional hospital, and nearly 500,000 square feet of industrial and commercial buildings were in various stages of construction in the Fairway Business Park. And, the former Palmdale Courthouse officially became the Palmdale Institute of Technology, home to the AERO Institute.
Industrial Market
Businesses are growing or relocating to the Antelope Valley at a rate greater than new space is being made available, according to the Greater Antelope Valley Economic Alliance. The overall vacancy rate has stood between 1 and 2 percent for the past several years.
The total permit value for new commercial and industrial construction in Lancaster and Palmdale has remained relatively constant since 2000. Lancaster had $225 million of investment, while Palmdale had $235 million. In 2006, Lancaster permitted an estimated $45 million worth of new commercial and industrial buildings, while Palmdale permitted an estimated $30 million.
Industrial building lots of all shapes, sizes and locations have sold quickly. And the demand for inexpensive industrial land is growing faster than local communities can make improvements wanted by industrial shoppers. With Los Angeles needing 11 million square feet of industrial space annually, the region has more than enough land to meet this shortfall.
Industrial & Business Centers
Lancaster
Palmdale
California City
Mojave
Ridgecrest
Inyokern
Tehachapi
Airports
Gen. William J. Fox Airfield – Improvements to Gen. William J. Fox Airfield located on West Avenue G between 30th and 60th streets west have given the airfield a 7,200-foot runway, which is 200 feet longer than the main runway at Bob Hope (Burbank) Airport.
Mojave Airport – Mojave Airport in the East Kern community of Mojave provides a unique gem for the region’s economy. Named the country’s first official “spaceport” by the federal government, the airport was the location from which Scaled Composities’ “SpaceShipOne” made history in 2004 by being the first civilian craft to make a flight into space. The general-aviation airport is home to 130 tenants as varied as the National Test Pilot School (NTPS), BAE Systems, Scaled Composites, General Electric, Fiberset, Teledyne Ryan, AVTEL Services, the Santa Monica Air Museum of Flying, Flight Research, and many more. Scaled Composites also produced the famous Voyager, which flew around the world without refueling in 1986.
Palmdale Regional Airport – Palmdale Regional Airport is owned and operated by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) under a joint-use agreement with the U.S. Air Force. The airport is located on a 61-acre site on the property of Air Force Plant 42. The terminal at 41000 North St. East first opened in 1971. Since then, LAWA has acquired an additional 17,750 acres of adjacent property for the airport’s eventual development into a large commercial airport. United Airlines is the only carrier operating here, providing daily flights to and from San Francisco. Two 12,000-foot runways can accommodate any commercial passenger or cargo aircraft. The airport is poised to accommodate increased future air travel if and when Los Angeles International Airport reaches capacity
Air Force Plant 42 – Aircraft manufacturers including Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., The Boeing Co.; Northrop Grumman; BAE Systems; SR Technics, a new aircraft maintenance company; and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration Traffic Control Center are located here. Located on 5,800 acres across 9 square miles, Plant 42 can handle nearly 50 commercial flights a day.
California City Airport – This airport was established by Great Western Cities in 1964 as a recreational attraction for people moving to the High Desert. It reverted to California City the following year and has since become the home of about 20 small businesses serving aviation, recreation and commercial needs.
Retail Development
Diversification in the economy is helping attract more big retailers to the valley. In response to the expansion, commercial developers are planning more and more projects, located from one end of the valley to the other.
In California City, for example, Ellison Plaza developer Michael Ellison is hard at work on his 16-acre development at California City Boulevard and California City Boulevard South. A 103-room Microtel Inns & Suites has opened here, and plans call for the center to include retail stores, entertainment venues and restaurants. For information, call 858/541-2230.
Valley Central Way – Construction of the new Wal-Mart Supercenter began in August 2006 at this shopping center in Lancaster. The developer is overseeing the remodeling of the old Wal-Mart building, as well as construction of 15,000 square feet of new space.
Front Row Center – Located immediately south of Clear Channel Stadium and west of Highway 14, this project consists of 250,000 square feet of retail space and at least two hotels: an-85 room Hampton Inn and a 92-room Homewood Suites.
Lancaster Spectrum – Lancaster Spectrum, located at 20th Street West and Avenue J-8, north of the Clocktower Plaza, will add 125,000 square feet of retail space and a 52,000-square-foot, 102-room hotel.
Lane Ranch – Located on 71 acres along 60th Street West, between avenues L and L-8, this project calls for 744,000 square feet of space, about half of which will be major anchor stores. A 174,000-square-foot Target store is planned.
20th and J – Wood Investments is developing a 176,000-square-foot retail center at the corner of 20th Street East and Avenue J. Plans call for a 106,000-square-foot Home Depot.
The Promenade at Amargosa Creek – This 545,000-square-foot project is being developed on 62 acres at Avenue L and 10th Street West, southeast of the Lancaster Auto Mall.
Lancaster Power Center – Located southwest of Lancaster Boulevard adjacent to the Market Place, this 76-acre retail center has Wal-Mart as its anchor, as well as other major discount retailers Michaels, Marshall’s, Food 4 Less, Payless Shoes, Mode Five, Staples office supplies and PetSmart. Restaurants include Black Angus, Chuck E. Cheese, Subway, Carl’s Jr. and H. Salt Fish & Chips. The Movies 12 theaters and other small stores complete this retail area.
Downtown development on Lancaster Boulevard continues. The 740-seat Lancaster Performing Arts Center, a regional Sheriff’s Station, a county library (the largest in the county library system), a Metrolink station, and the Aerospace Walk of Honor have combined to rejuvenate and energize the downtown commercial district.
Lancaster Market Place – Located off Highway 14 at the Avenue I exit, the 24-acre Lancaster Market Place has undergone extensive refurbishment and added new stores.
Lancaster JetHawks/Clear Channel Stadium – In less than six months, vacant land was transformed into the Lancaster Municipal Stadium, also known as the “Hangar” and most recently renamed the Clear Channel Stadium. It is the home of the JetHawks, a Boston Red Sox affiliate. Cinemark 22, a state-of-the-art 22-screen movie theater complex, opened in 1999 across from the stadium.
Antelope Valley Mall – The mall, which recently underwent an expansion, opened in Palmdale in 1990 with four anchors: Sears, JCPenney, Harris and Gottschalks. In 1999 the mall expanded from 980,000 square feet to 1.2 million square feet when Dillard’s department store opened the first two-story store in the valley. The Dillard’s store is the second California store for the upscale department chain. Since then, Gottschalks and Harris have merged, and Miller’s Outpost, Texas Cattle Co., Grand Salon & Spa, Select Comfort, Daniel’s Jewelers, and Old Navy have joined the other 125 stores in the mall. Restaurants include Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Chili’s and Outback Steakhouse. Located inside the mall are several specialty restaurants, along with the Oasis Food Court. The mall continues to grow as evidenced by the 50,000-square-foot addition of a 24-Hour Fitness, The Men’s Wearhouse, Shaw Carpets, L.A. Cellular and Kinko’s. A new stadium-style Cinemark movie complex recently opened here as well. Located at 1233 Rancho Vista Blvd. (Avenue P), the mall conducts events throughout the year. For more information, call the Customer Service Center,
