San Gabriel : Redevelopment Plan OKd

The City Council has given preliminary approval to a redevelopment plan amid criticism from advocates for low-income housing.

San Gabriel officials hope to revitalize two commercial corridors along San Gabriel Boulevard from East Elm Avenue to Central Avenue and on Las Tunas Drive from California Street to North Muscatel Avenue. The areas are zoned primarily for businesses, with a mixture of residential properties. Many of the lots are small and irregularly shaped.

The city Redevelopment Agency would receive a portion of property taxes collected in the areas to fund projects there, such as upgrading streets and sidewalks to retain and attract businesses. Also, the agency could purchase property, using its power of eminent domain if necessary, to assemble parcels for larger developments, such as department stores.

Jonathan Lehrer-Graiwer, a lawyer who said he represents low-income residents of San Gabriel, said Wednesday that he is considering filing a lawsuit to stop the plan.

He said the plan does not spell out how lost housing would be provided elsewhere. He also said the area is not blighted and that redevelopment would divert tax dollars from other uses.

City Administrator P. Michael Paules said the city’s General Plan ensures that some residences would be retained in the area. He said the plan explains in sufficient detail how any lost housing would be replaced.