The article describes how Van Nuys Boulevard — once a lively hub for Valley car culture — has deteriorated into a corridor marked by homeless encampments, drug paraphernalia and boarded-up businesses between Sherman Way and Victory Boulevard. Local workers report tents blocking storefronts and say some retailers have shifted entrances to remain open. Residents and longtime visitors contrast the current decay with vibrant 1970s images, while business owners call on city officials for action; the local council member did not respond to requests for comment.
Van Nuys Boulevard’s Fall: From 1970s Cruising Hub To Boarded Stores And Encampments
Once the beating heart of San Fernando Valley car culture, Van Nuys Boulevard now shows a different face: shuttered storefronts, homeless encampments and visible signs of drug use along the corridor between Sherman Way and Victory Boulevard.
Businesses Struggle Amid Encampments
Local employees say tents and belongings often block sidewalks and storefronts. At one discount retailer, managers moved the customer entrance to an alley because the original doorway was repeatedly obstructed. A cashier, George Barak, who was working his second day on the job, described the scene as heartbreaking and asked for more city help to clear encampments that disrupt commerce.
Public Health Concerns
A recent Post walk found paraphernalia commonly associated with heroin and crack — bent metal spoons, lighters, needles and empty bottles — scattered near bus stops and under awnings. Sidewalks were littered with trash, clothing and other personal items, creating both public-health and safety concerns for residents and businesses.
Local Voices
"They settle in front of our businesses. Customers say, 'Oh, can't you get rid of them?'"
That quote came from Aziz Saxenian, a dental assistant who works on the boulevard. Saxenian said her employer bought the practice about six months ago and hopes conditions will improve, but added that the current environment makes a quick turnaround unlikely. Business owners and employees repeatedly called for clearer municipal action and better allocation of tax dollars to address street conditions.
Then And Now: A Stark Contrast
Photographer Rick McCloskey captured the boulevard in the mid-1970s for his book Van Nuys Boulevard 1972. His images — smiling teens, crowded burger stands and a bustling movie theater marquee — illustrate how social life on the boulevard has eroded over decades. Former patrons describe the current scene as depressing and unrecognizable compared with their memories.
Officials Were Contacted
The Post requested comment from District 6 Council Member Imelda Padilla, who represents the area; she did not respond to requests for comment.
For now, employees like Barak and Saxenian continue to work amid daily uncertainty and hope coordinated action from city leaders might restore safety and commerce to a boulevard that once drew crowds and served as a cultural hub for the Valley.
Closed storefronts and homeless people have taken over a section of once-beloved Van Nuys Boulevard in LA's famed Valley. David Buchan for Ca Post
This throw-back snap from the book "Van Nuys Boulevard 1972" is in stark contrast to the area today. Courtesy Rick Mccloskey
Signs of drug use are seen along a section of Van Nuys. David Buchan for Ca Post
Bus stops are riddled with broken metal spoons and lighters, the tools used by heroin and crack addicts to get a fix. David Buchan for Ca Post
Homeless encampments riddle the once-beloved stretch of wide road. David Buchan for Ca Post
Dental assistant, Aziz Saxenian stands outside her workplace — surrounded by shuttered shops. David Buchan for Ca Post
The scene across the street from the dental practice where Saxenian is atrocious. David Buchan for Ca Post
George Barak works as a cashier at the 99 Cents store on Van Nuys Boulevard that had to change its entrance because of so many encampments. David Buchan for Ca Post
The 99-cent store is trying to survive among the changes. David Buchan for Ca Post
A Van Nuys Boulevard movie theater's marquee is emblazoned with the then-newly released "Godfather" movie in better times. Courtesy Rick Mccloskey
"There was no resemblance to what it was. It has fallen very far, it was depressing. I don't have a desire to go back," said Rick McCloskey, who used to visit the stretch as a teen. David Buchan for Ca Post
A movie poster for "Van Nuys Blvd" depicts what the area once was. Van Nuys Blvd
Rick McClosky cruises Van Nuys Blvd in 1972. Courtesy Rick Mccloskey
"They settle in front of our businesses. … Customers say, 'Oh, can't you get rid of them?' " Saxenian said. David Buchan for Ca Post
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