On Thursday April 16, 2009 Camarillo celebrated the grand opening of its long anticipated Promenade. However, not all Camarillo or Ventura County residents welcome the expansion, and have some suggestions for stores that provide a better fit with the younger portion of Camarillo.
On an article previously written by yours truly about the Camarillo Promenade E.J comments:
Mana, it may seem nice for all the shoppaholics, but we definitely need much more for the family entertainment. How about a Dave and Busters! Our college age young people would love it and there is definitely nothing like it in Ventura Co. Kids, families and singles would sure make use of it.
How could this be promoted?
E.J
Another frustrated reader writes:
These new developments are so disappointing (so far). I was born and raised in Camarillo, but have since opted to move to Ventura about 2 years ago. Why? Because Ventura has fun things to do. There is nothing better than small, non-chain restaurants where you know the food quality is good. Camarillo and their lack of vision burns me up. All of this land and more retail space…what for? The outlet mall isn’t even that great…unless you live out of town because its a novelty. Why would we want to expand upon that with more nonsense stores! I’d like to see a Cheesecake Factory or PF Changs if we have to go the chain route. Like someone said earlier, a Dave and Busters would be ideal. In case the old folks running this city forgot, Camarillo has become a college town…even though you wouldn’t know it since all of the college students go to T.O or Ventura to have fun. How about keeping the revenue in Camarillo and create, even a small scene, for college kids to congregate and have a fun time at. Just my thoughts…
The city of Camarillo claims that the new Camarillo Promenade will provide 400 new jobs. What city officials have failed to see is that the same number of jobs could have been provided for employees of stores in the new Promenade that served the local residents rather than the visiting shoppers. When city officials proposed a promenade in Camarillo many residents were under the impression that Camarillo’s promenade will be some what similar to that of Westlake’s Promenade.
A large chain book store or a few restaurants would have served the families and students of California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) better than an extension to Camarillo’s Outlet Mall.
With the Promenade adding another 28 stores to the existing Camarillo outlet, Camarillo now houses the largest outlet center in California. Why? That is the million dollar question…
This post was originally posted on: Ventura County Real Estate Talk
Hi Mana, good to see you on my dash board. We have several outlets here too. But, I can find the same discounts at TJ Maxx and Marshalls. They are fun to go to when traveling but I never drive to them, just don't save that much. Don't be a stranger.
Hi Mana, good to see you...
Could it be because of the economy? Perhaps it will get better as more people can spend money!!! ;-)
Hi Mana,
As the others said, it's good to see you again.
You know I found your post interesting, especially after hearing a blurb on the local SoCal news talking about the expansion, that was about 4 weeks ago. You were the first person I thought about when I heard Camarillo, now I see your posting on the subject.
Now a question, even though this may not be specifically what the folks in Camarillo would prefer, i.e. more fun (as commented by another) wouldn't the increased sales with the additional 28 stores help the overall economic base in the community?
BTW, I'm all for my fun, especially when it comes to low cost/no cost family fun. Seems like everything is so expensive nowadays for families, I love the simple pleasures we all used to enjoy.
Mana--Nice to see you posting here again...Sounds like you know what the people of Camarillo want. Local politics is so interesting. I am certain that those in your area enjoy reading the good information your are writing about the area. Our area wanted to build a mall/shopping area costing thousands in assessments but residents came out in a very strong voice to say it wasn't wanted if it came with high assessments as so many nearby communities have these options and there are only so many $$ to spend in this economy. Each community is so different. It is great that you are providing a voice to the people in Camarillo. Take care!
Hi Missy, I am also a TJ Maxx and Marshalls kinda gal!!
Hi Teri, Most people in Camarilo were under the impression that we were getting a promenade structured for the residents. We already have a large outlet mall which generates good revenue for our city.
Hi Lynda, I hope the new stores generate some income. Now are old outlet mall has some vacant stores because some of the larger stores relocated to the new promenade. Some of the visitors on my outside blog did a good job expressing their feelings about this new promenade!!
Hi Teri, The problem is that the city did not share its plans with us till it was too late.
Well good to have you back lady it has been months and I too have missed you. It is always difficult to see change in our towns. Being up here in Tehachapi we are seeing just the opposite of big retailers they are staying away in droves. Sadly there are many vacant stores on Tehachapi Blvd now (our version of main street) and two more Mom & Pop shops posting going out of business sale signs. Attention AR bloggers if you are longing for the good old days come on up and visit us on the Mountain. Keep on posting my friend you do a great job.
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