District Square | KGTY

The project, titled District Square, is set to replace the Rite Aid, Ralph's and Cleaners, which were staples in the community for over a decade. The two-story center will bring a host of new retailers to the Crenshaw District, which spans over five miles of South Los Angeles. It is expected to include Target, Ross, Marshall's and leasing space for other vendors and retailers.

The project manager for engineering company KGTY couldn't comment on the project's timeline or budget, but the website confirms their client, The Charles Company, has designed the location to include both upper and lower level parking with access to retail stores on all levels. Although a deadline for the project's completion is unknown, community members and leaders have expressed excitement about a brand new center coming to the delapidated neighborhood.

Tunua Thrash, executive director of West Angeles Community Development Corporation, said she's excited for the new project and is focused on helping the community through employment.

"We are talking with the developer about how to make sure the jobs that become available at the site that the community will have the opportunity to apply for those," said Thrash. "I was told that they work with the Wilshire workforce center, and I've made the request that the developer work with other local organizations including the Los Angeles Urban League to make sure that there is a diverse workforce and a workforce reflective of the local area."

The multi-level retail center promises over 100 new jobs, but Thrash has yet to receive a response from the developer. But Thrash is confident the community will support the center and hopes this project will help funnel new retail opportunities into the Crenshaw District and other South Los Angeles areas. 

"I don't see this having a negative impact on black owned businesses in the area," she said. "I don't see them as having the same product offering and type that would be offered at a center like this. I think that many of the black-owned businesses that have been most successful in the Crenshaw Corridor are food services, and I don't see this development replacing that."

The new transit system will also add some bustle to the area, transporting South L.A. residents and travelers to and from LAX.

Construction is under way, but an official grand opening date has yet to be decided.

For more information visit the KGTY website here.

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