Design Group Study Targets Sun Valley & Panorama City Improvements.

SHERMAN OAKS, Calif. -- Visioning and collaborating on a cohesive plan for revitalizing Sun Valley and Panorama City are the goals of a coalition of local architects, businesses, engineers, economic development officials, and college students in the San Fernando Valley.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA), San Fernando Valley Chapter, and the Economic Alliance of the San Fernando Valley, have formed a cooperative partnership to develop a comprehensive study that will assess existing land-use of a 1,500-acre area in the Sun Valley-Hansen Dam community. They will then utilize a 20-member team to develop a sustainable growth plan and economic development strategy for this long neglected and environmentally challenged area.

A similar team completed a Panorama City Commercial Area Concept Plan -- part of the Economic Alliance Livable Communities Council's plan to encourage the revitalization of various San Fernando Valley town centers and communities. This plan was adopted by the Los Angeles City Planning Commission as the official overlay guideline for the Central Panorama City Area, and it has attracted a number of developers and individuals, who have recognized the area's potential.

The AIA and Economic Alliance have developed design plans, conceptual drawings, commercial and residential policies that will lead to a comprehensive and mutually agreeable revitalization plan.

Sun Valley's proximity to two Los Angeles watersheds, its growing residential community, and its prominence as an industrial center have made it the target for economic and environmental renewal by numerous civic groups. Initial research has revealed that Sun Valley's industrial land use should be preserved and upgraded to attract and retain designed-based manufacturers. Demand for such development is validated by the area's current industrial property vacancy rate hovering at 2 percent.

According to Jerry Pollak, AIA architect and project team leader, "This team is ready and dedicated to collaborate with businesses, property owners and city officials to develop plans to deal with the myriad of issues and concerns impacting this community."

The AIACC represents the interests of 10,000 architects and allied professionals in California. Founded in 1944, AIACC's mission supports architects in their endeavor to improve the quality of life for all Californians by creating more livable communities, sustainable designs and quality work environments. Today the AIACC is the largest component of the national AIA organization. For more information, visit www.aiacc.org.