Then & Now – Riverside Town House
We know little of the history surrounding the block bounded by Fifth, Sixth, Lemon and Lime streets in downtown Riverside, but a 1948 aerial photo shows the entire lot devoid of development, with grass, shrubbery and some trees as well as a few walking paths. Although it’s likely the block once contained at least a few homes, the 1948 aerial gives the impression the lot had recently become an impromptu neighborhood park.
In December 1948, however, a building permit was issued for a 96-unit apartment complex, which would encompass the entire block. According to the permit, the applicant (and owner) was Mr. J.J. Goldbach, who listed a McAllister Ave. address in the Arlington area of Riverside. The permit also lists architect William F. Mellin, A.I.A., of 671 “D” Street in San Bernardino.
The “Riverside Town House” project, which was given an address of 3489 Sixth Street, was initially valued at $500,000, resulting in permit fees of $292.00.
Nearly 60 years later, excepting for the addition of utility lines, the much taller palm trees and a few re-positioned light poles, it appears little else has changed.
Flash: Riverside Townhouse: 1950s – 2009
More: RaincrossSquare.com – Then & Now
Sources: City of Riverside, HistoricAerials.com
