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The heart of the South First Area (SoFA) has been transformed recently
into a more pedestrian-friendly district with the addition of three new
sidewalk extensions creating new outdoor social places.
Business owners believe the new "boardwalks" and addition of planters
along Reed Street also creates an environment for visitors to stroll,
linger and shop. " (The boardwalks) give people an invitation to
congregate, which is the whole point of what we do," said SoFA gallery
owner Cherri Lakey of Anno Domini.
The changes come as the result of a collection of ideas from South
First Street businesses, San Jose Redevelopment Agency funding and
guidance, 1stACT Silicon Valley leadership and matching funds, city
backing and Downtown Association input and programming.
Throughout the summer, SoFA visitors will see more improvements. In the
future, proposals include more sidewalk extensions, improving lighting
on buildings, an artistic print in the paving of South First and San
Salvador streets, another mural, benches, better festoon lighting over
the street and welcoming gateways on the north and south ends.
On the street itself, property owners have repaired old facades and are working to add tenants to the declining number of empty store fronts remaining on the street. Recent openings by Heroes Martial Arts, Downtown Yoga and Caffe Trieste - fit into the district's artistic and eclectic bent.
"The
streetscape improvements...along with the building upgrades and new
high-rises are changing the face of SoFA toward a more mature arts and
entertainment district," said Richard Berg, SoFA Committee co-chair and
property owner.
Adds Ben Soriano, owner of South First Billiards and also a SoFA
Committee co-chair: "We´re most looking forward to allowing our
patrons to sit in our own sidewalk patio space, enjoying long
afternoons and evenings with their family and friends, while watching a
fully active street come alive with events and celebrations."'
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