With over six million visits downtown and a population at over 220,000 and growing, the first word to describe Fontana, CA, would not naturally be "overlooked." History tells a different tale, and it's why the former southern California steel-town is ushering in its next act with a mixed-use downtown and entertainment district.

We spoke with Acquanetta Warren, Mayor of the City of Fontana, and Phil Burum, Fontana's Deputy City Manager, at ICSC Las Vegas about the city's major redevelopment project and what's required for such initiatives to be successful.

They also discuss:

• The history and timeline of downtown Fontana's redevelopment project;
• What makes for a successful retail or development partner; and Fontana's new entertainment venue, Stage RED is being developed in partnership with hometown hero and rocker Sammy Hagar