Sav-On To Open

The eye-catching purple light poles definitely brought new attention to Azusa’s historic Downtown when a streetscape improvement was completed two years ago. But it also brought new businesses - two dozen at last count. With the construction of a landmark new Sav-on at the corner of Azusa Avenue and Foothill Boulevard comes the first new private commercial development in three decades.

“Azusa is a progressive and flourishing town,” declared Paul Niccachian, president of the Downtown Azusa Business Association. His Café Balzac was a pioneer in the new life for Azusa’s historic owntown. Now long-time family businesses like Lewis Lawnmower see newcomers like Nana’s Ice Creamery, La Plaza Galleria and Smart City Grinds attracting back customers tired of chain retailers and formula restaurants.

“Our community’s vision for Downtown Azusa is a distinctive mix of unusual businesses that appeal to both ambitious entrepreneurs who will bring new enterprises as well as to customers looking for a vibrant cultural atmosphere as a place to shop, dine and do business,” summarized Economic Development Director John Andrews.

The design for the new Sav-on reflects this approach and was recently singled out by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as a model for new construction in a historic Downtown. A spectacular rockfall fountain has been commissioned for the corner by Azusa Light and Water. It will be the backdrop for a gracious outdoor dining area for the new restaurant space included in the new development.