Funds Sought for Proposed Van Nuys Business Park

Aiming to revitalize a long-vacant industrial site, city officials are seeking $2 million in federal funds to convert a large tract near Van Nuys Airport into a business park.

Los Angeles Councilman Joel Wachs said Tuesday he will request the money to convert the 55 acres formerly occupied by defense contractor Kaiser Marquardt into an industrial park with more than a dozen businesses. The funds would come from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s earthquake assistance program.

“This effort . . . will be a linchpin for substantial economic progress in Van Nuys and the San Fernando Valley,” said Wachs, whose district includes the area near Saticoy Street and Hayvenhurst Avenue.

If the federal government approves the funding request, Kaiser Marquardt, which abandoned much of the site after defense downsizing, would kick in $3 million to restore the lot and improve traffic around the area, Wachs said. Some entertainment and telecommunications firms have already inquired about moving into the proposed industrial park.

The final application for federal funding will be submitted in conjunction with the mayor’s office in the next six months, said Wachs, whose office plans to solicit community feedback on the plan.