CVS Pharmacy is the first major retailer to reopen in Pacific Palisades months after one of California’s worst wildfires on record tore through the area, destroying dozens of businesses.
The pharmacy celebrated the reopening of its location at 864 Swarthmore Ave. this week. It’s one of the first businesses to return since the wildfires destroyed nearly 5,500 single-family homes and dozens of apartment buildings, stores and offices.
The store required a full interior rebuild, after fire and smoke damage forced the removal of shelving, fixtures and flooring. The rebuild also included upgrades to the pharmacy counter and electrical systems, while delivery and pickup areas were expanded to handle higher demand for community recovery efforts that are ongoing.
CVS’ return represents a milestone in that recovery as Pacific Palisades property owners work to bring back retail, multifamily and civic spaces. The neighborhood’s upscale open-air shopping center Palisades Village is set to reopen next year, but most businesses, including charred supermarkets, shops and restaurants, remain closed without reopening timelines.
“After months of hard work, we’re thrilled to welcome back customers to our Swarthmore Avenue CVS Pharmacy store,” said a statement from Michael Ibrahim, CVS Pharmacy vice president of retail field operations. “With community rebuilding efforts underway, we’re focused on ensuring hardworking first responders, construction workers and community members have access to the products they need.”