Plaza a Pleasure

I recently read an article, “Will Horton Plaza Center Be a Success After the Fanfare Fades Away?” (Sept. 15) in your newspaper, written by Thomas K. Arnold. I realize that Mr. Arnold is merely expressing an opinion and has no working knowledge of how complex projects are put together, but I would like to take issue with him on several plateaus.

Clearly, this man has no vision and is satisfied to meander through life in the quite bland shopping centers of Mission Valley. I am an owner of one of the stores in Horton Plaza and was very impressed with the progress of the development and the response to Horton Plaza’s uniqueness.

I am a resident of Los Angeles, and our other five stores are situated in some equally exciting projects in the area. None has the dynamics of the long-term urban development of Horton Plaza. San Diego has been growing for years but has lacked an identity and focal point. The pride we witnessed in the workmen involved in the project, the commitment we felt by the employees of the Hahn Corp., and the attention we received during the project from San Diego were inspirational.

As a merchant, I know of no other project that has been merchandised and thought through with such detail. This is an identity for San Diego’s future. Unfortunately, people like Mr. Arnold are unable to think beyond today. His comments about the food were correct, but quite ignorant. To open as many quality restaurants at one time is impossible. No mall has ever attempted such quality in one short amount of time. We have nothing in Los Angeles that will rival the food and entertainment of Horton Plaza.

Mr. Arnold would have had Hahn build another Fashion Valley, which is bland, but perfectly located to do tremendous business. The mall of the future needs to be like Fantasyland or Magic Kingdom for the sheer pleasure of it. It should be a place that is a landmark, so that one will feel special about going.

I am particularly bothered by Mr. Arnold’s article because it really seems to be written with no particular purpose other than to de destructive. I am not a resident of San Diego, but I would be offended by his lack of vision if I were. My enthusiasm for San Diego and Horton Plaza have only peaked since we opened our store. I am very proud to be a part of San Diego’s business community and to serve the people’s needs.

PHELAN JAMES

Torrance