Development Project Hopes To Transform Empty Carmichael Shopping Center Into Vibrant Marketplace
CARMICHAEL (CBS13) - Old world inspiration comes to Carmichael in the form of a new project that's about to break ground. Developers are planning an open-air, public marketplace in what is now an empty, rundown shopping center.
They say it'll completely transform the surrounding area, and property owner Allan Davis will be the first to tell you the place will need a little more than a new paint job.
"We're going to do a total transition of this whole property," he said.
The next time you see the Hillside Center on Fair Oaks Boulevard, you probably won't recognize it. Allan and his wife, along with designer Michael Martin, are rolling out big plans to transform the rundown shopping center into Milagro Centre.
"We're creating this outdoor facade, which will generate activity from the street," said Martin.
The public marketplace is a mix of old and new.
"Going to a marketplace is more like going back in time, with the modern amenities we'll have here," said Martin.
Allan says the first phase of development will focus on an area about 40,000 square feet to add a few big restaurants, a microbrewery, wine tasting, and some smaller specialty stores.
"Tearing the building completely apart and opening it up," said Davis.
It might be hard to visualize now, but it'll all be open-air center with a water feature, a fireplace and central courtyard. It's a new look for an old building that could help other small businesses and restaurants on the block.
"It was a blighted area. Now we're going to make this the jewel of the area and the catalyst for the whole street," said Martin.
Ground breaking for the project is set for Thursday, with plans to have the marketplace open by spring.
