AgdaPkt 2019-10-14 Joint SA PFA - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

S.A. - Page SMIL26 • The Downtown does not have continuous blocks of uninterrupted retail storefronts, and retail uses in the Downtown are currently too spread out. • The Downtown could benefit from hotels, which is another component of a 24/7 shopping environment that includes employers, visitors, and residents. • In spite of new mixed-use developments and office buildings that will support future retail opportunities, there is still an over -abundance of "single -level" retail space in the Downtown core. Adding housing above ground floor retail space will contribute to 24/7 activity. Pact Prnrtirar Many cities are developing initiatives to attract and diversify retail in their downtowns. The City of Mountain View is considering the following initiatives: discounting parking permits for retail business to encourage employees to park in designated parking locations away from neighborhoods that surround its downtown; creating a streamlined planning and building permit process for retail businesses; cleaning the sidewalks regularly; allowing pop-up stores to activate vacant spaces; and allowing the development of vacant, underutilized city -owned parcels for anchor retail stores. These are practical, easily implemented best practices that over time can create better location conditions that attract and support retailers. Other "best practices" that have been implemented by successful downtowns include the following: • Create a retail action plan with a vision statement to guide retention and attraction activities. • Build a strong brand that differentiates Redwood City's Downtown from others. • Create a critical mass of like businesses (restaurants, cafes, bars, bistros, brewpubs) that will help create a special identity for the Downtown. • Attract one or two unique anchor businesses as well as smaller brand stores that attract "everyday" shoppers. • Create a downtown that people want to live in by encouraging development with residential above active ground floor retail. Provide density bonuses to projects in lieu of retail space concessions (lower market rent, tenant improvement allowances, etc.). • Attract new hotels that would provide new customers every day. • Identify and work with property owners to embrace the retail vision and want to be pioneers in diversifying as well as increasing retail businesses in the downtown that sell hard and soft goods. • Start with one or two blocks to create critical mass and a retail focus. Partner with property owners and coordinate streetscape improvements that support a retail character. • Design and implement a wayfinding system and create business signage that has design continuity. • Continue pro -active outreach to retailers and retail brokers, especially when vacant spaces become available. • Provide expedited permit assistance for small businesses. City of Redwood City 1017 Middlefield Road, Redwood City, CA. 94063 Tel: 650-780-7000 www.redwoodcity.ore 1109