Exception Taken to Story on Mall

I am writing in regards to the article titled “Desertions Driving Up Commercial Vacancies,” which appeared in the Valley Business Section on April 13. I am disappointed in the negative slant of the article. The Promenade was portrayed as a struggling shopping center, when in fact, following our multimillion-dollar renovation completed in March, 1992, we have added over 20 new stores, and both foot traffic and sales have steadily increased.

I would like to correct the statement made in paragraph six that a planned expansion of the mall has already been delayed. In fact, I told the reporter that it was inappropriate for me to comment on our expansion plans until negotiations were completed with the new department store replacing Robinson’s. There are many contingencies, including the status of the Warner Center Specific Plan. It was inaccurate to infer that the expansion is delayed.

In speaking to many of my tenants, I found that a much more positive picture was conveyed to your reporter. However, those comments were excluded from the article.

KIMBERLY D. SOLOMON

Solomon is general manager of the Promenade, Woodland Hills