Eben on Autry's ideas
The Autry administration has been at the helm of over $1 billion of investment in downtown and there is great momentum for which they deserve credit. The surge needs to continue with a strategic approach that accomplishes the following:
1. The continued development of entertainment/dining venues to provide a reason to stay in downtown after dark. This includes the Master Planning of a Cultural Arts District that brings more live, regional theater to Fresno.
2. Housing…The Forest City project will bring needed housing and is exciting, but it is not the sole savior of Downtown Fresno. We have the local talent and will to revitalize downtown with loft projects and other high density housing opportunities that will provide an urban living experience that is desirable and affordable.
3. Public Transportation improvements like the street car project can increase our public/private partnerships, help identify land that is ready to develop, ease the parking burden, and improve air quality.
4. Celebrates the spirit of Fresno. A project needs to be embraced that is fun, bold, and gives visitors, businesses, and local residents a reason to come Downtown. Fresno has a great history and downtown is a perfect to do things that honor the contributions of our legends.