Local business mogul Shane Stewart recently bought up property from the southwest corner of Cedar Street and N. Circle Drive west to include the Village Centre complex, excluding the Middle Ridge Winery building.
In Phase I, Stewart said he plans to install a 76-space parking lot without removing any buildings. In Phase II, which may happen this summer, he plans to add public restrooms. The restrooms will be maintained without any government funding, he said. “I will do it myself.”
Those renting the property may expect that he also will not raise rents, he said when asked.
He had a specific purpose in buying the land. “In the 16 years I’ve lived here, I’ve never torn down or built any buildings,” he said. “I bought it to preserve it.” He said he very much supports the Idyllwild Historical Preservation District.
“When your grandkids come back in 50 to 60 years, they should be able to enjoy it the way it was,” he added.
