Starbucks to replace Walgreens pharmacy at Paramount and Florence

An artist's rendering of the new Starbucks that will replace a Walgreen's pharmacy at 7966 Florence Ave. Courtesy city of Downey

DOWNEY - Downey Planning Commission unanimously approved plans for a new Starbucks at their meeting last week.

The new 1,785 square foot Starbucks – located at 7966 Florence Avenue – will include a drive-thru and outdoor patio.

The location was formerly a Walgreens pharmacy, which ceased operations in September 2016. Surrounding businesses include Tacos El Gavilan, Marketplace Grill, CVS, Chase Bank, Tropicana Restaurant, and Kyoto Sushi.

According to city staff’s report, the Starbucks will “bring liveliness to the southwest corner of Florence Avenue and Paramount Boulevard, that does not currently exist in the area.” Staff’s report anticipates that the new café will benefit the entire shopping center and the adjoining uses.

The drive-thru queue will be contained on-site and wrap around the building. Traffic in the intersection will not be impacted, city officials said.