Inland Empire faces warehouse glut and job decline crisis

During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the overdevelopment of warehouse and light industrial spaces in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. A representative highlighted that there are currently 8,000 acres of approved buildings and an additional 8,000 acres under review, amounting to approximately 400 million square feet—equivalent to seven world logistics centers.

The representative argued that the region does not require further development of these types of facilities, citing a significant decline in manufacturing jobs over the past 40 years and a decrease in warehouse jobs since their peak in November 2021. The trend indicates that jobs per acre in these land uses are diminishing, compounded by increasing automation in the industry, which reduces the economic benefits of such developments.

Additionally, the representative pointed out environmental justice concerns, particularly for the Crestmore Heights community, which is surrounded on three sides by warehouses and light industrial uses. This situation raises questions about the appropriateness of upzoning in the area, especially as residential zones are being expanded to accommodate more people in less space. The discussion emphasized the need for careful consideration of the long-term implications of such developments on both the economy and community well-being.