SAN DIEGO (KGTV)— Ocean Beach could be getting a new Target, but only if the big box store figures out a way to get around a decades-old parking issue with the city.
News of a possible Target Express store moving into the old Antique Center building had some residents like Zeb Ryan shaking his head.
“Why do we need more corporate businesses here?” Ryan said. He pointed at the nearby CVS, saying everything he would get at a new Target Express is already around the corner.
Other residents agreed, saying it’s a battle of the C’s — comfort vs. convenience.
“I don’t know if you’re getting any comfort from a Target,” OB resident, Drew Sibley said. “You’re getting convenience. But not character. You’re getting a bunch of red stuff”
The City if San Diego said that “Red” Store has some hoops to jump through before even thinking of coming to OB.
The city has a longstanding parking agreement with the former Antique Center and popular restaurant, South Beach Bar And Grille.
During the Antique Center's business hours, the lot adjacent to their store was theirs. When they closed at 5 p.m., it was designated specifically for South Beach Bar and Grill patrons.
So if a Target Express were to move in, that parking agreement would be grandfathered in. That means the new Target Express must close it’s doors by 5 p.m. as well, unlike many of its other stores that are open until 11 p.m. or midnight.
“It sounds like a mess,” Ryan said.
Ryan believes it has been a mess all along, saying the original parking agreement was odd, considering the distance between the restaurant and the lot. The two are almost two blocks apart.
“It’s a far walk to South Beach [Bar and Grille],” Ryan said. “You can just park in the pier for free.”
But if it keeps Target from moving in, Ryan said he was all for it.
”Why don’t we turn it into like an indoor skate park or something,” Ryan asked.
Target Corporation sent 10News this statement:
"Target is always exploring possible locations for new stores, and we’re continuing to pursue the site on Newport Avenue in Ocean Beach. Work is continuing between the building owner and nearby restaurant to finalize the parking specifics at the location, and we are excited by the possibility of serving guests in the Ocean Beach community."
The City of San Diego said owners of the South Beach Bar and Grille have also submitted paperwork, pursuing other parking options for their patrons.
