In 2001, in comments to the Planning Commission, the Chamber supported rezoning of the Lent Ranch to allow building of an upscale, high fashion regional mall and surrounding development at Highway 99 and Grant Line Road .

When the project was working its way through the process in 2001, the Chamber took a very in-depth look at it.  We reviewed the draft environmental impact report; sponsored an open forum, polled our members and held a members’ meeting at which members were able to express their views on the proposal and ask questions.

Since that time, much has changed in Elk Grove.  However, the Chamber’s support for a regional, upscale mall has not changed. 

After extensive review and time, the zoning and mitigation issues have been handled.  Now the issue before City is the design of the Mall.  Once again, the Chamber provided an opportunity for our members to gain knowledge of and comment on the proposal. 

In reviewing the new, open-air life style design, the Chamber reiterates its support for approval of the mall, and specifically, the Elk Grove Promenade plan before you.  The design and commitment by the developers for tenants reflects state of the art design, the realities of business and yet still will be an asset to the community. 

In endorsing the Elk Grove Promenade design, the board found, among others things, the mall will:

• provide an attractive shopping experience for the region,
• increase sales tax revenue for the City, enhancing the City’s ability to provide services to its residents,
• bring additional jobs to the community, both in the retail shops and management of the mall and the related services,
• provide a local source for additional products and services for residents,
• serve as an amenity for those looking to locate new businesses here, and
• be a catalyst for economic growth, helping build the momentum needed to create a strong job base.

As in 2001, business leaders of the Chamber found that the mall would not negatively impact local businesses, but would rather enhance them by helping to keep shoppers in the area and serving other consumer needs.  With the City requirement that infrastructure be in place and funded prior to development of the Mall, traffic issues will be at a minimum.  In fact, the mall project has facilitated and sped up the much needed improvements to the Grant Line Road and Highway 99 interchange.

This project is not just about funding for city services; it is about jobs and quality of life here in Elk Grove.  This project does not stand alone – the area in which it is located is scheduled for development of commercial office space and affordable housing. 

We urge you to approve the design of the Elk Grove Promenade and allow the project to move forward to become an important part of the City of Elk Grove.