By Corey Costelloe
Economic Development Coordinator
Highlighting success within the economic landscape of our community
Economic Development Update
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Corey Costelloe
Panda Express opens Tehachapi restaurant
The lines were long, as they are when any new business opens in Tehachapi, even Panda Express, food most residents have sampled elsewhere. But as with anything it just tastes better when it is produced at home.
After six months of construction Panda Express opened their doors on December 10, culminating years of relationships with the City of Tehachapi and commercial developers. This new location is the fifth new restaurant to open in the City of Tehachapi in 2020, despite fluctuating restrictions for the restaurant industry. Panda Express features some restriction-friendly options including a very-efficient drive thru, order-in, carry out and online/mobile application ordering which streamlines the payment and pickup process.
Panda Express marks the first of many commercial projects slated for the outparcels on the land adjacent to Walmart. As expected within 18 months of the Walmart opening, the first new business on the site opened while others are under construction. The northeast corner is currently under construction with the Valley Strong Credit Union branch, as well as development of the parking lot and additional retail/restaurant pad. There are three other lots on the site owned by Walmart which are expected to eventually develop as well.
Panda Express has long targeted the Tehachapi market for expansion and were able to create the ideal location for their newest restaurant, which has brought new job opportunities to the area as well as another dining option for residents and retail customers.
Panda joins 4 Seasons Café, Tacos El Superior, NYC Subs & Grill and Prime Bar & Grill as new restaurants calling Tehachapi home in 2020. The increased retail footprint of the region and growing community continues to attract both corporate and small restaurant owners, a trend that will hopefully continue in 2021 despite current COVID-19 related challenges.
New Economic Data coming in 2021
The City of Tehachapi has hired eIMPACT to complete an updated report and online dashboard that will study the City's increased trade area, customer demographics, buying behaviors and much more. The online portal will assist both developers and current business owners get a better understanding of the customer base served by the City of Tehachapi.
Holidays in Tehachapi
Listen to the latest TehachPod talking about holidays in Tehachapi and the economic impact for our local businesses.
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For more Economic Development News visit http://www.liveuptehachapi.com/303/Economic-Development-News.
