Church to be transformed into “Village Square”

From Valley Center Road you can’t help noticing that the old Valley Center Community Church building is undergoing major renovations—as longtime Community Pharmacy owner Pete Nguyen transforms the 18,000 square feet into the “Village Square.”
The new center will be the home to some familiar tenants, like longtime VC chiropractor Dr. Bob Vertrees, and CPA Barbara Riggs— and some new ones who will be announced later. The work is expected to be completed by mid-to-late January and open for business by February.
Nguyen said he is still waiting for the approval of the Pharmacy Board before he can begin operating a pharmacy in the space.
The buildings on the property have the potential for 20 offices, although there will very likely be much fewer businesses since some businesses will have several suites.
It is also a functioning commercial quality kitchen that could be used for a coffee shop. Some of the suites are suitable for childcare businesses.
Of course, Community Pharmacy will be expanding, with more over the counter medicines and other services. It will be located in the old church sanctuary—where sermons were preached for many decades.
Nguyen’s original contractor had wanted him to get rid of features that make the building stand out, such as its tower and stained glass. So he changed contractors and the work is “preserving the character of the building and retaining the tower and the vaulted ceiling,” said Nguyen.
He envisions the courtyard as a place for tables where visitors could relax and perhaps enjoy fresh baked goods from a bakery based in the center.
Six office spaces are still available, said Nguyen.