A Landmark in Commerce Undergoes Redevelopment

Workers have begun transforming the landmark Uniroyal tire plant in Commerce into a mall, hotel and office complex.

The Trammell Crow Co., which is developing the $118-million project, is restoring and preserving all but about 150 feet of the 1,700-foot facade that was built to resemble an Assyrian palace.

The landmark beside the Santa Ana Freeway near Atlantic Boulevard sat vacant for years before the City of Commerce Redevelopment Agency selected Trammell Crow to develop the complex. Trammell Crow is leasing the 35-acre site from the Redevelopment Agency.

Crews have been clearing the old tire factory buildings, while reinforcing and restoring the facade. In photo below, workers Jeff St. John, left, and Richard Bordeaux take down one of the relief sculptures from a wall in the entrance lobby. The pieces will be restored and used in the remodeled structure.

The development will include 400,000 square feet of office space, 157,000 square feet of mall area and a 201-room hotel.

The mall portion of the development is expected to open later this year, while office buildings and the hotel should be ready for business in 1991, according to Trammell Crow.