SHERMAN OAKS—Plans are underway for an intense renovation of the Ralphs grocery store on Ventura Boulevard; the company aims to turn the store into a high-end Fresh Fare with new amenities and aesthetic updates. Though many in the neighborhood have a positive view towards the changes, the plans have stirred up some controversy within a section of the community regarding the proposed height of the building, which is set to exceed the Ventura Boulevard Specific Plan.

Increased access via Moorpark and Ventura Boulevards, self-scanning aisles, sushi and bistro stations, and an available assortment of other gourmet foods are some of the changes in store for Sherman Oaks residents. On their website’s introductory video, Ralphs company project manager Angelo Devito describes the renovation, “We want to provide an improved shopping experience with affordable quality offerings that cater to the healthy living needs and desires of our residents and customers.”

However, some members of the community are upset about the plans. In their May newsletter, The Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association wrote, “The proposed building heights are 37 feet above Ventura Boulevard and 48 feet above Moorpark. The Ventura Boulevard Specific Plan allows a maximum of 30 feet from the highest point on the building to the lowest point on the ground five feet away from the building on any side. Thus, the proposed buildings do not comply with the Specific plan.” Some feel that the height violation will adversely affect the aesthetic appeal of neighborhood. In the newsletter, SoHa goes on to state their aim at maintaining a balance between preserving a “small town” feel while encouraging development that does not bring even more traffic and congestion and creates a canyon effect from oversized and tall structures on our streets. They therefore view exceptions to the Ventura Boulevard Specific Plan as a threat to the “small town” vibe of their beloved community.

Also on the store’s website, the company addresses these concerns. They write, because of our unique property and our opposition to having subterranean parking, it is not possible to have a Ralphs Fresh Fare at this height. People from all over the community have been expressing their dislike for subterranean parking for safety and access concerns. Yet this is what we’d have to do”¦have subterranean parking and have a store entrance that is lower than Ventura Boulevard.” Their plans reflect what they feel is best suited for the store updates, the lot size and the community feedback they have gathered.

As plans for the renovations progress and the project gains momentum, the conflict seems to be between improving the neighborhood and retaining that “small town” welcoming appeal that Sherman Oaks is known for. If you have questions or wish to share your opinion on the changes, visit the store website at www.myralphsshermanoaks.com.