Construction Begins on Downtown Garage

Construction of a $6.85-million, city-owned parking garage in Glendale’s downtown redevelopment area began Tuesday after a ground-breaking ceremony. Completion is scheduled in one year, city officials said.

The multilevel garage, being built by Taylor Woodrow Construction Corp. of New York, will have five stories above ground and 2 1/2 floors underground. The project is on Maryland Avenue between Broadway and Wilson Avenue.

Seven businesses, from 128 to 136 N. Brand Blvd., are being removed to make way for a shopping arcade that will link the garage to Brand, said Susan Shick, deputy redevelopment director.

Construction of the garage is considered the key to rehabilitating the two-block area between Brand and Louise Street. Property owners are required to reinforce structures for earthquake safety and to restore the buildings. Several buildings already have been restored, including the Security Pacific Bank at 100 N. Brand Blvd., which cost $5.5 million to renovate.

The parking garage will be used by employees and shoppers in the two-block area.