Construction is continuing on the City Lights shopping center in east Bakersfield, where developers say the project is nearing full occupancy ahead of a grand opening planned for this spring.
Developers of the City Lights project say the center is now 90% leased, marking what they described as a significant milestone. Duane Keathley of Cushman & Wakefield said more announcements are expected in the days to come as leasing continues.
Bakersfield City Councilman Andrae Gonzales, who grew up on the east side, said the development addresses long-standing gaps in retail and amenities in the area.
“For far too long, east Bakersfield has been neglected. And we have not gotten the type of shopping or restaurants or amenities that we’ve seen all over this city,” Gonzales said.
Current and planned tenants include Boot Barn, Sprouts, Five Below, Marshalls, Burlington and Ross, among others.
In-N-Out Burger is also a possible addition, though the company said it is still in the development application process, making it too early to determine if or when a location would open.
Gonzales said the project could bring economic benefits to the east side, including employment opportunities.
“What I’m also excited about is the job opportunities for people on the East Side. People will have good-paying jobs closer to where they live,” he said.
The City of Bakersfield has issued more than 20 shell building permits and tenant improvement permits tied to the project, covering work both outside and inside the buildings.
Gonzales said he remembers shopping at the East Hills Mall and believes many other east Bakersfield residents share similar memories. He said he hopes City Lights becomes more than a retail destination.
“What I’m hoping for is that the City Lights project becomes a place not just for shopping and restaurants but also a place where people can convene. Where a community can gather. Where families can connect with one another and where memories can be shared and made right here on this property,” Gonzales said.