We didn’t unlock the downtown Sacramento grid this week. But we hammered away at the lock, and it’s only a matter of time before we break it wide open. The first of two meetings on the future of the J-K-L Corridor exceeded my expectations Monday afternoon at the Cosmopolitan Cabaret. The discussion was honest, spirited and enlightening. More than 100 business and property owners (plus other interested folks) spent 90 minutes exchanging ideas about the future of Sacramento’s historic business district.
I’m not a mayor who pulls punches, and I asked the audience to let the ideas and opinions fly.
The crowd didn’t hold back.
We heard complaints about public safety on the K Street corridor, and the need for better security and police protection. Public safety was the foundation of my campaign when I ran for mayor last year. I am dedicated to making Sacramento a safe city, day and night. The downtown corridor will get the attention it deserves.
Several merchants expressed their desire to see K Street become a regional hub for a uniquely urban blend of retail shops, entertainment, housing and office space.
Those desires are consistent with my dreams for downtown. I mentioned how successful the urban mix has become in San Diego and Seattle – two cities I recently visited.
There were statements about the crucial role of public transit – safe, reliable transit that runs late into the evening. When our intermodal plans for the old rail yards are realized, Sacramento will become a city that others copy.
Several audience members mentioned the need to see young people downtown, especially college students. Again, I was in total agreement. I believe there’s a huge upside to attracting a college campus downtown.
Finally, I was impressed by how much we agree – as opposed to disagree. That’s the key to unlocking the grid.
Our next meeting on the J-K-L corridor will be next Monday, October 19, at the Cosmo Cabaret, starting at 5:30 p.m. The public is invited. Let’s pack the house.
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