FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29, 2026
Media Contact
Angela Herrera Perez
press@opportunity.lacounty.gov
Florence-Firestone Businesses Revitalized Through LA County’s Renovate Façade Improvement Program
Los Angeles, CA – Today, the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and Second District Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell announced the completion of major façade renovations for two small businesses located along the Firestone Boulevard commercial corridor in the Florence-Firestone neighborhood of South LA. These improvements are part of the County’s ongoing efforts to stimulate inclusive economic growth through the RENOVATE Façade Improvement Program.
Funded through the County Economic Development Trust Fund (CEDTF) and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) resources, the RENOVATE Façade Improvement Program provides grants to commercial property owners and tenants in areas of economic opportunity throughout LA County. The program supports exterior improvements to aging business properties, helping to revitalize high-traffic commercial corridors, attract customers, and strengthen community identity.
The County invested a combined $336,730 into these two businesses, which provide community-serving retail in the Second Supervisorial District:
- La Mexicana Meat Market: 1778 Firestone Blvd
La Mexicana Meat Market serves as a crucial lifeline in a neighborhood that has limited availability of fresh, healthy, and affordable food. By offering fresh meats, produce, and culturally relevant staples, the market fills an essential gap for residents who rely on it as one of the few dependable grocery options in the community.
- 99¢ Store: 1768 Firestone Blvd
The 99¢ Store plays an important role in the neighborhood by offering a wide range of affordable essentials that are otherwise hard to find locally. From school supplies and household goods to toys, clothing, and everyday necessities, it provides residents with a convenient, budget-friendly place to meet daily needs. In an area with limited retail options, its presence helps families stretch their resources and access items that support day‑to‑day living, learning, and home care.
“The renovations we’re celebrating today are not just investments in these buildings, they are investments in our commercial corridors, where businesses and residents thrive together through shared economic opportunity. These small businesses are a lifeline, providing healthy foods and daily essentials for countless families,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. “I am proud that the County is ensuring our legacy businesses can keep serving their communities and brightening the block for everyone who walks these streets. When we invest in our storefronts, we drive foot traffic, fuel local spending, and create the kind of economic momentum that lifts the whole corridor.”
“These façade improvements do more than refresh the look of these storefronts—they strengthen two long-standing neighborhood businesses that residents rely on daily,” said DEO Director Kelly LoBianco. “By improving the visibility and customer experience of a key local grocer and an essential-goods retailer, we’re supporting the places that provide reliable food access, household necessities, and cultural connection in Florence-Firestone. We’re proud to partner with our local entrepreneurs to invest in this community’s future.”
The renovations were overseen by LACDA’s Construction Management Unit through a formal agreement with DEO. Architecture and design was provided by Swift Lee Architects while Thomasville Construction provided general contracting services for the construction.
Since its launch in 2015, the RENOVATE Program has been a critical tool in LA County’s broader economic development strategy—advancing equitable investment, supporting small businesses, and strengthening neighborhood vitality one corridor at a time. To date, Los Angeles County has completed 35 projects, investing over $11 million on façade improvements for serving more than 125 businesses across all five districts.
To learn more about the RENOVATE Façade Improvement Program, visit: www.opportunity.lacounty.gov/renovate
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About DEO: About DEO: The LA County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) has a vision for a more equitable economy with thriving communities, inclusive and sustainable growth, and opportunity and mobility for all. The department, with its America’s Job Centers of California, Office of Small Business, and hundreds of programs and partners, creates quality jobs, helps small businesses and high-road employers start and grow, and builds vibrant communities and spaces. Stay connected with DEO! Follow @EconOppLA on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, subscribe to our newsletter, or visit opportunity.lacounty.gov to learn about DEO services.