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Priority Focus Bulletin No. 50 -2003. Council may direct staff to act on positions <br />taken by Council. (Copies of League of California Cities Priority Focus available in <br />City Clerk's Department.) <br />B. Report on Downtown Impacts to street closure (Oral Report only) <br />At the City Council meeting of January 5, 2004, under "Matters of Council <br />Interest ", Council Member Hartnett expressed concern with the unique impact <br />the retail /cinema project construction has had on Theatre Way (Middlefield Road). <br />Not only has that area been closed, but there is not a sidewalk or street in that <br />area making accessibility problematic. Because a meeting was scheduled on <br />January 6 with the Downtown Business Group, staff recommended a summary <br />be given on any actions taken or to be taken on this issue as a result of that <br />meeting. <br />Redevelopment Manager Moeller, utilizing a PowerPoint presentation, outlined <br />steps that have been undertaken such as flags, A -frame signs, pedestrian access <br />from Winslow; and "Open for Business" advertisements. Future measures consist <br />of an "Open during construction" banner, floor mats, small A -frame signs, "Enter <br />here" sign for Prestige Photos, lit archway, viewing platform and temporary project <br />site signs. She further described the businesses being affected, the task force <br />formation and next steps, the suggestions presented by the DBG by letter and <br />brainstorming ideas presented. <br />Council Member Hartnett stated his appreciation for both the broader perspective <br />of the entire Downtown as well as the specific efforts being made in connection <br />with the Middlefield businesses. He expressed the hope that those items that can <br />be implemented quickly without a complete plan might be done. He stated that <br />advertisements in the Downtown enticing people to enjoy the retail /cinema project <br />in the future might be a great link. Regarding Middlefield Road, specifically, he <br />stated his appreciation but that he is not satisfied that we should wait for some <br />items because the businesses are being impacted now. He made specific <br />suggestions pertaining to floor mats, the archway and entry area, for the four <br />businesses on the sight an approach to assist with specific marketing efforts, a <br />banner on the Broadway side fencing of the construction update, and <br />communication on the progress of the construction area. <br />Council Members comments included whether along El Camino Real and at <br />Sequoia Station a banner or sign might be posted. Suggestions also included <br />contacting Comcast for any possibility of advertisement on the construction project <br />and promotion of businesses, possibility of a Downtown Development Office with <br />minimal hours. The banner idea indicating businesses open, and where parking is <br />available was mentioned again. <br />Recommendation: <br />REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 12, 2004 <br />MINUTES PAGE 4 <br />MINUTES Book No. 60 <br />Page No. 141 <br />