San Pedro is a hardworking family town where people stay for generations. Unfortunately our city planners and elected leaders do not get that what makes Pedro special it is its unique sense of pride and independence. Therefore, relying on plans that depend on outsiders to save us with their dollars is not top on anyones list. Though outside dollars are good. We have to start with making downtown San Pedro work for the locals. The locals are the ones who will provide patronisim year round and through various economic cycles.
How this relates to downtown is simple. Instead of making San Pedro look like Santa Monica's 3rd street prominade, Long Beach's revitalized Pike area. We need to start making downtown a destination for the people of San Pedro. Eating out is great. And the restraunts are great. However, what else are you going to do? Even kids that play Sim City understand that it takes packaging of businesses that feed off each other to create a robust economy. Movie night at the Warner Grand is good. Coffee or a dinner out is a good combo night out with a night at the Warner. However, parking at night is not the easiest or safest (at least it does not feel safe). During the day, why would you go downtown? Shopping at Numero Uno? Clothes shopping at the pricy and limited Norms? Going to thrift stores?
There has been talk about blocking off 6th street. Great, but why would you go downtown given the current mix of shops and limited parking.
I am a San Pedro lover. If you have ideas let me know.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
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