Abella Center, formerly known as International Marketplace and originally El Portal Shopping Center, is a significant mixed-use development located in San Pablo, California. As the first redevelopment project in the area in 20 years, Abella Center has played a crucial role in revitalizing downtown San Pablo. The center encompasses 15 acres and includes a mix of market-rate homes, a commercial center, and city services, making it a unique addition to the San Francisco Bay Area.
Key Points
- Abella Center is a charming, village-style mixed-use community in downtown San Pablo.
- The development includes 510 market-rate homes, consisting of 90 single-family homes, 219 townhomes, and 201 condominiums.
- As a transit-oriented development, Abella Center is located near amenities and transportation options, making it an attractive choice for residents.
Abella Center’s Integration with San Francisco Bay Area Transit and Housing
Abella Center is strategically positioned as a transit-oriented development, with easy access to public transportation. The center is served by numerous AC Transit bus lines, connecting it to the surrounding areas, including Richmond and El Cerrito del Norte BART stations. Additionally, there is a BRT station at San Pablo Avenue and the Abella Center, as well as WestCat services on line C. The inclusion of market-rate homes in the development helps address the housing needs of the growing San Francisco Bay Area population.
The Shopping Experience Near Abella Center
While Abella Center itself offers a revitalized commercial center with tenants like Starbucks, Chase, and Applebees, residents can also explore the diverse shopping malls and retail options in the San Francisco Bay Area. The region is home to numerous shopping centers, including Stonestown Galleria, Sunvalley Shopping Center, and Stanford Shopping Center, among others. These malls provide a wide range of shopping experiences, complementing the offerings at Abella Center.
Cultural and Recreational Activities Around Abella Center
San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area offer an abundance of free activities and events that Abella Center residents can enjoy. Some notable options include:
- Weekly activities and events at Salesforce Park, such as yoga classes, live music, and garden tours.
- Art exhibitions and performances at the Fort Mason Center.
These activities provide opportunities for residents to engage with the vibrant cultural scene of the region without having to spend money.
Abella Center and the Broader Civic and Metropolitan Context
Developments like Abella Center play a significant role in the broader context of regional planning and civic engagement. The Bay Area Metro Center, which focuses on regional planning, has an impact on projects like Abella Center. Additionally, residents can participate in activities at the SF Civic Center, a hub for civic engagement.
FAQ
What is the Abella Center?
Abella Center is a mixed-use development in San Pablo, California, that includes market-rate homes, a commercial center, and city services.
How does Abella Center contribute to the San Francisco Bay Area’s housing market?
Abella Center offers 510 market-rate homes, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums, helping to address the housing needs of the growing Bay Area population.
What shopping and retail options are available near Abella Center?
In addition to the commercial center within Abella Center, residents can access numerous shopping malls and retail options throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
