Temple City : Revitalization Plan OKd

The City Council on Tuesday adopted a plan to revitalize the downtown business center.

The plan, which covers Las Tunas Drive from Sultana to Rowland avenues and parts of Temple City Boulevard, streamlines rules that in the past have made it difficult for investors to start businesses, Economic Development Director Luke Sims said.

Las Tunas Drive will be repaired and incentives will be provided to attract senior citizen housing and a family-style restaurant, one of the city’s top priorities, officials said.

Among the perks offered by the city is a reduction in the number of parking spaces required for a quality, sit-down restaurant and certain businesses. Also, landlords who provide at least half the units in a building to senior citizens will be allowed to house more tenants on the property.

But a plan to offer cash rebates for property owners who upgrade deteriorating buildings will have to wait until funds are available, City Manager Denise E. Ovrom said.