Upland's Development Boom: What's Coming Next for Our City?

CLICK HERE TO SEE PRESENTATION

Upland’s Development Boom: What’s Coming Next for Our City

The City of Upland is experiencing a wave of revitalization, with exciting projects transforming downtown, attracting new businesses, and planning for future growth. At the recent Chamber Board presentation, Development Services Director Robert Dalquest outlined what’s already been accomplished — and what’s on the horizon.

Downtown Revitalization

Downtown Upland has welcomed seven new restaurants, two breweries, a local market, and new entertainment spots in recent years. Success stories like Two Frogs Cantina, Axe Lair, and Patra Dining have benefited from the City’s Commercial Rehabilitation and Business Attraction & Assistance Programs.

Key highlights include:

• Kings Brewing Company – Craft beer & BBQ at 2nd Ave & C Street

• Firefly Cottage – A restaurant and bakery now under construction

• Tom Thomas Magnolia Plaza – A public gathering space along the Pacific Electric Trail, soon to go back out for construction bidding

• New Downtown Parking Structure – 409 spaces, EV charging stations, and 9,900 sq. ft. of retail, scheduled for Planning Commission review on August 27, 2025

Current Development Activity

Several major projects are in progress across the city:

• The Packing District – 4-story self-storage with retail and potential drive-thru restaurant

• Rose Glen Specific Plan – 64 detached single-family homes on E. Arrow Hwy

• Villa Serena Specific Plan – 65 new homes approved by City Council in June 2025

• Better Buzz Coffee Roasters – Bringing their high-octane brews to Upland

• The Colonies Self Storage – 164,570 sq. ft. facility now grading the site

• Mountain Green Center Expansion – New McDonald’s and potential bank or drive-thru business

Future Projects

Planned projects promise to bring more energy and opportunity to Upland:

• Cable Airport Event Center – Featuring a museum, offices, and observation patio

• San Antonio Water Company Headquarters – New administrative and maintenance buildings on a 4.9-acre site

• New Starbucks at College Park – Approved with drive-thru facilities

• Upland Center Rehabilitation – Possible new tenants like T.J. Maxx or HomeGoods

• Black Rock Coffee Bar – Potential location in The Packing District

• Arrow Route & San Antonio Ave Development – 132 townhomes in a rezoned public district

• Old Buffalo Inn Site – 72 single-family condos by Century Communities

• Santa Fe Depot Station Rehabilitation – $850,000 grant-funded project to restore the historic station and create a new plaza

Historic Route 66 Centennial

Upland is preparing for the 100-year anniversary of Route 66 in 2026. Plans include:

• Branded street signage along Foothill Blvd

• Centennial events at Memorial Park, including a car show, food trucks, vendors, and live music

• Special commemorative pins for sale

• Mural on the AT&T water tower featuring the Route 66 sign

The Takeaway:
Upland is in the middle of one of its most ambitious periods of growth in decades. From small business openings to major public works projects, these efforts are designed to strengthen our economy, celebrate our heritage, and improve quality of life for residents. The coming years promise a mix of revitalized spaces, new housing, and destination-worthy attractions — all while preserving Upland’s unique character.