New commercial development coming to east side of Visalia

VISALIA, Calif. (KFSN) -- A new development is coming to a large property on the east side of Visalia, after decades of sitting vacant.

A lot of new homes have been built in the area over the last few years, and now, new commercial development will be built to accommodate all the families that now live here.

For years, the plot of land near the Highway 198 and Lovers Lane interchange has remained empty. Now, developer Chandi Group USA is going through the final stages of building a multi-phase commercial development that will eventually include a 120-room hotel, pharmacy, gas station and fast-food restaurant.

"I think there is a strong need for additional retail in the area, particularly given that residential development on both north and south of 198 has been increasing, particularly in the last two years," said Josh McDonnell with the city of Visalia.

The first phase, which will include an Arco/AM-PM gas station and a drive-thru fast-food chain, is expected to start construction within the next few months. Eventually, the hotel will be built, followed by the pharmacy. People who live nearby are happy to hear about the development.

"A hotel next door, I'm sure it'd be good for this side of town. There's a lot of new expansion this way so it's probably needed," said Visalia resident Bobby Ford.

Visalia city officials say commercial development is on the rise. Recently, Ashley Furniture opened on Mooney Boulevard, and Mor Furniture is expected to start construction within the next couple weeks. And another developer is also interested in the west side of town -- hoping to build a large-scale office and commercial complex next to Fresno Pacific University.

"Although nothing formal has been applied yet, we are seeing some general planning concepts that have brought forward," said McDonnell.

Both the Plaza Drive and Lovers Lane developments are expected to include hotels.

"Visalia as we know is the gateway to Sequoia National Park and we have a greater need than most communities for hotels, so it is a sign of economic development," said McDonnell.

City officials expect the commercial development to get built fairly quickly -- saying within a year people can expect to see the gas station and fast-food chain open for business.