Ready for change? Caruso will make his mark on Pacific Palisades, California

Of course one of the most interesting developments in real estate in the Palisades right now is the impending Swarthmore Avenue redevelopment by Rick Caruso. How will the town feel when he has finished putting his stamp on it? That will be one of the most interesting dynamics to watch play out over the next several years. This blog will follow the development project with weekly photographs and updates. I plan to create a time lapse video after the project is complete.

Of course, there are several schools of thought watching the impending change. The Embracers of Change, the Preservationists, and the Clueless. 

Those that embrace change and are looking forward to the potential for a revitalization of the Swarthmore Avenue shopping district see this as a boon for the town.  They have seen what Caruso has accomplished at the Grove and the Americana. Whilst they probably are hopeful that he will have a different approach tailored to the needs of our town, they are optimistic that he may be able to create some change for Swarthmore, which has been struggling for quite awhile. 

Those that embrace history and preserving the elements of Pacific Palisades that have long contributed to the appeal, charm, and value of the town are watching this with a sense of trepidation and fear. Rightfully so in several regards. Certainly, we would not want the Americana or the Grove plopped down in the middle of Pacific Palisades! And who can define the chemistry that has created the allure 0f Pacific Palisades for so many for so long. There should be hesitation and consideration before making major changes to something so precious.

And finally....the Clueless. The people that live in blissful ignorance that will finally notice when all is said and done, probably in some accidental way, that there have been changes! Since you are reading these words, clearly you are not one of the Clueless. What will be funny is if some of the Clueless transform into Preservationists too late.

I welcome your thoughts on the impending changes.