At Savala Equipment Rentals, we’ve been powering Southern California’s construction landscape for over 45 years, delivering reliable, high-performance equipment that gets the job done right. As a family-owned, Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) and Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certified company, we’re proud to support projects that build stronger communities. One such transformative initiative is the OCVibe mixed-use development in Anaheim—a $4 billion project that’s redefining Orange County’s downtown experience. In August 2024, our backhoe, excavator, and roller rentals played a key role in trenching for underground utilities around the Honda Center, as well as excavation and grading for road improvement work—showcasing the precision and efficiency that define our service.
What is OCVibe? A Vision for Orange County’s New Heart
OCVibe is a sprawling 100-acre master-planned campus centered around the iconic Honda Center and the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). Spearheaded by Henry and Susan Samueli, owners of the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks, this mixed-use development combines entertainment, residential, commercial, and open spaces to create a vibrant, walkable downtown hub for Orange County. Unlike traditional suburban sprawl, OCVibe draws inspiration from lush, green urban designs—think a “modern Mesopotamia” carved from parking lots into a connected oasis with 3 miles of walking trails and 9 megawatts of on-site solar power.
The project is rolling out in phases, with initial openings slated for 2026 and full completion to follow. Recent milestones include the topping off of office buildings and a 6,000-seat concert hall in September 2025, marking significant progress in vertical construction. Key components include:
- Entertainment District: At its core, OCVibe enhances the Honda Center experience with pre-game events, themed gatherings, and a total of 25,000 seats across venues for concerts, shows, and sports. A bustling market hall will feature local artisans, adding to the nightlife with bars and performance spaces.
- Mixed-Use Elements: This isn’t just about fun—OCVibe integrates practical living and working spaces. Plans call for 2,500 residential units, including affordable housing, with a recent amendment approved in late 2024 adding up to 750 more units by redeveloping an aging office building. Commercial aspects include 200,000 to 500,000 square feet of modern office space (potentially up to 1 million), two hotels with 550 eco-friendly rooms, and over 28 restaurants plus 6 bars offering regional and global cuisine.
- Community and Green Spaces: Emphasizing inclusivity, OCVibe dedicates 20 acres to parks and plazas, including two 4-acre public parks for gatherings and events. It’s designed to foster community connections, with easy transit access via ARTIC, free parking, and spaces for business conferences or celebrations.
This comprehensive approach stems from the Samuelis’ vision to give Orange County a welcoming downtown where everyone feels at home, blending entertainment with everyday life.
The Purpose and Community Impact of OCVibe
OCVibe’s role extends far beyond construction—it’s about revitalizing Anaheim and Orange County as a whole. With a $4 billion investment, the project addresses key needs like housing shortages, economic growth, and sustainable development. By adding thousands of residential units, including affordable options, it aims to transform Anaheim’s real estate market, making the area more attractive for families and professionals. The mixed-use design promotes a live-work-play lifestyle, reducing commute times and boosting local businesses through increased foot traffic to shops, restaurants, and events.
For the surrounding community, OCVibe promises job creation in construction, hospitality, and tech sectors, with innovative office spaces drawing employers. Environmentally, the focus on green hotels, solar energy, and expansive parks supports a cleaner, more connected Orange County. It’s poised to become a premier destination, enhancing tourism while providing locals with accessible entertainment and open spaces—ultimately fostering a sense of belonging in a region long deserving of a true downtown. (Source: Anaheim Official Website; Urbanize LA Article)
Savala’s Role: Rentals Powering Progress
As experts in equipment rental for Orange County projects, Savala was thrilled to contribute to OCVibe’s groundwork. In August of 2024, our backhoe rentals were deployed for trenching underground utilities around the Honda Center—a critical step in stabilizing the site for future buildings. Savala also provided excavators and 84” roller for a roadwork improvement project in front of the Honda center.
Our late-model, well-maintained backhoes exemplify the efficiency and reliability that contractors trust us for. Whether bare or union-operated, they minimize downtime and maximize productivity on large-scale sites like OCVibe. This involvement aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting public works and private sector developments that shape Southern California. For more on our backhoe options, check out our equipment rentals page. Interested in how we tailor services for projects like this? Learn more!
While public sources don’t yet highlight specific contractors like Savala in OCVibe coverage—likely due to the project’s scale and ongoing phases—our team’s expertise in backhoe rental in Anaheim ensures we’re ready for the demands of OCVibe construction. We’re proud to be part of a project that’s not just building structures, but building community.
Building Tomorrow, Today with Savala
OCVibe represents the future of Orange County: innovative, inclusive, and exciting. At Savala Equipment Rentals, we’re honored to be a part of this project. As this mixed-use development unfolds, it will continue to enrich Anaheim and beyond, creating lasting value for residents and visitors alike.
Ready to tackle your next project? Contact us for equipment rental in Southern California that delivers results. Stay tuned for more updates on how Savala is powering progress across Southern California.
