These stores do not benefit, because they would not fit into the new scheme for Main Street.

People going out for a 'night on the town' don't really want to walk by Jackson Medical Supply and see wheelchairs and oxygen machines.

Dude, I love you. Thank you for pointing out what so many of us Bay Area transplants deplore about this city. ENOUGH WITH THE ANTIQUE STORES!!!! Five years ago when I moved here I thought "it has to get better". But in five long years, it hasn't. It's sad: our downtown is abyssmal and depressing. And no one really (besides you) has offered a solution. Let's not even get into the restaurant scene here, which is enough to put me on a double dose of prozac. Something has to change. Downtown Woodland is not cute, not interesting, and hardly historic. Take a look at Winters (cute), Nevada City (darling), Santa Cruz (gorgeous), even Martinez (precious) and we are the ugly stepsister who didn't get invited to the ball. I stand behnind you and thanks for the great work.

OK, I just got thru typing out quite a bit and it didn't go thru :o rather than try it all over again, let me just say - check out Old Town in Eureka - especially on the first Saturday of the month. Someone could get a load of ideas here.

Excellent ideas...I especially like the idea of closing part of Main Street. (Another highly successful example of this is the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica...check it out on Wikipedia.org) Downtown could be a popular destination on evenings and weekends, and unique to this area. Downtown has a lot of character and charm...or could have. Everytime I've seen something happening in Heritage Plaza, it has drawn a crowd. There'd be a great opportunity for the Farmers Market, too. More foot traffic for the Opera House. In fact it could be Stroll-Thru-History-lite, year 'round. Tell me where you'd see that anywhere else? As far as parking, there could be plenty behind the buildings on Main.

Close down Main Street? GREAT idea! Seriously, nobody stops here now anyway, so rerouting the casino traffic would not be an issue. The only issue I see is that Main St is a state highway. I have one more suggestion...clean up the State Theater and restore its former beauty!

Those old guys in Freeman Park are not winos. They're old Mexicans. It's part of their culture to hang out together in the square. Don't insult them by calling them winos.

Maybe you have some good ideas here, but your list of who does and doesn't "fit" is pretty rude too.

Mr. IW responds: Look beyond the group of guys sitting at the benches wearing cowboy hats. You will see a lot of other people who are there every day. People I have met and talked to- people who describe themselves as far worse than 'winos' because they will admit to their drug and alcohol problems. Do you ever get out of your car and actually walk around Freeman Park?

I was a part of the City's Downtown Coordination efforts 2001-2004 - - it is heartening to read that you are interested to seek solutions to the complex problems that Downtown faces.

A lack of sustained vision is the barrier that must be overcome before any ideas really can take flight & have an impact upon Downtown Woodland. It will take long-term collaboration between the City, the property owners & the merchants to set worthy goals & have the patience to achieve them. This is perhaps even more important than developing dependable budgetary sources for Downtown improvement & marketing, & certainly needs to be a precursor to such.

There is a leadership void & lots of issues of trust (& distrust) that must be overcome before it will be worthwhile to pull the plug on Main Street's stoplights, eliminate parking, add parking or whatever one perceives to be the problem du jour. Ultimately, I do believe all of these issues can be overcome, but not without a true spirit of cooperation between all of the key parties. Downtown is in need of a leader or group of leaders capable of really nurturing & encouraging this.

Meanwhile, I do see the emerging Downtown Woodland restaurant scene as a bright spot. Hopefully, more businesses will choose to re-examine their business models & make efforts to join The Next Chapter in having operating hours that better take advantage of the foot traffic generated by the combination of the restaurants, the Opera House & even the State Theatre, to some extent.

Awesome ideas, Karl. I have a few friends from the town of Mill Valley, and they have the cutest downtown area. Im embarrassed to show them ours if they ever come visit, since theres absolutely nothing to show.

We need more festivals. I passed by Freeman park the other day and there was a ton of people listening to a band play- there is potential. Your idea of closing down mainstreet is a good one, but it is long term and will be rife with political problems. But if we can generate more foot traffic downtown NOW, then there will a good impetus to create the type of venue you have in mind. Having a farmers market downtown twice a week, maybe a Hot August Nights with some vintage cars, A Harvest festival in the fall would show our Ag roots, a Christmas festival, a Jazz or Blues or Bluegrass festival in the spring, a local Art festival. The possibilities are endless- we could have some sort of event once a month with the right planning. And then advertise the hell out of them! That would increase the foot traffic now.

BRAVO!!! I am sixty now, born and raised here. My children and their children were born and raised here. I feel Woodland has lost its core. I applaud your ideas and your courage to point out the eye sores. However, I'm not sure that the majority of citizens care to "walk" anywhere. As a society we have become very lazy.

I would also like to nominate you for President for attacking the damn lack of enforcement of our noise laws!! My son-in-law recently received a warning regarding my grandson's basketball hoop sitting on the sidewalk in front of their house. Now, our local gentlemen in uniform do have the time to complain about basketball hoops (as valid as the warning was)but are too busy to enforce noice laws? That noise bothers a hell of lot more people than that basketball hoop!! Thanks for attacking one of my biggest peeves.

Get rid of the car dealerships on Main Street.

I would like to see the farmer's market on a closed section of Main Street. I think it's current locations is horrible, who wants to walk around a mall parking lot.

I could not agree more! These issues have have been talked about for years!!! Forgot to mention getting rid of the Automobile stores, and revamping the old State Theater. Independent theatres are on there way back across America..just look at the revamped Varsity Theator in Davis, Tower in Sac, Telluride film festival, Sundance festival...

But unfortunately talk is cheap. Six things will support action and direction..1)working with/or changing local government , 2)Leadership and organization , 3) local citizerns speaking out, 4) working with local property owners for change, 5)use the power of eminient domain , and 6)of couse the most important element MONEY

Growing up in Woodland, Main St. was where we shopped. We had Breit's, The Fashion, The Corner Drug Store. Main St. started going "down hill" in the 70's & 80's. No one seems to know why except Woodlander's seem to prefer shopping elsewhere. I lived in San Jose for 14 yrs. and there are many examples of small "Main Streets" (Lincoln Ave, Los Gatos Blvd, etc.) I have heard a lot of complaints, but no one seems to do anything about it. Good restaurants fail, the Mall is pathetic, etc. I understand the rent at the our mall is very high. I certainly agree that the car dealerships should go. Woodlander's don't seems to support the good establishments. I am the first to say, I don't know why. I guess all the complainers should run for City Council or the Planning Commission or whatever it would take to make changes.

I think we should mandate something like affirmative action for restaurant variety.

Woodland: "Thank you for applying for a restaurant license. What type of food will you be serving?"

Restaurant Owner: "We will be serving authentic Mexican food."

Woodland: "I'm sorry, but we already have our quota of Mexican restaurants. Any chance you know how to cook Indian food?"

I LOVE this website - thank you so much!!!

These are all great ideas, but talking and doing are two different things. Everyone adding to this commentary is invited to join the Woodland Art Center (email dino@woodlandartcenter.org), an organization that IS doing something - - with limited funds I might add.

Most ideas in this commentary (again, very good ideas) won't go anywhere because the ideas need investment (in time, in money, in partnering). Unless you can start (or join) a business, partnership or organization that will create life in the downtown, your idea (however good it might be) will probably just evaporate.

Talk about revitalizing downtown did not start in 2001. I participated in community workshops in the early 90s when the city brought in a consultant from the Bay Area. Closing down Main, one-way traffic, diagonal parking, plazas, parkways, planting trees, etc., etc., were all discussed. The potential is still here, in part because of the history. History and art are two ingredients that will help enliven downtown.

Yes, relative to any other California city, the downtown IS historic. Obviously, Woodland does not have a history like Boston or London, but compared to places like Mill Valley, Santa Monica or Eureka, Woodland does have an interesting history and a potential to be charming.

And for your information, we helped the Stroll Through History Committee create and install the banners in Heritage Plaza. The banners are not intended to attract tourists by themselves. The banners are part of a collective whole of ideas to make downtown a nice place to hang out. The Woodland Art Center's Dead Cat Alley Nine Lives Project has gained regional attention with four TV stations reporting on the ceramic cats. This project is gaining momentum with the support of downtown property owners and merchants.

So as much as I like all the ideas presented on this topic, I challenge each of you to act upon your great ideas and make them happen. If you want to meet some people with similar visions, email dino@woodlandartcenter.org and join us!

Wow, a lot of great ideas. It really would be nice to have a downtown to be proud of. Parking has always been a problem, you know those people with the uniforms and guns well they like to hand out parking tickets like candy. I had to move from downtown because of this. My customers were always getting tickets for parking 1" over the stupid lines. In fact I had to pay for many of them just to keep the peace.

People do not want to walk four blocks to get to downtown. The parking behind most business is very bad or does not exist for the most part. If you could solve the parking problem I believe that you just fixed the biggest part of the problem. When it is easy to access a store or restaurant then you will go there.

Believe me, you are on the right path. Just last night on one of the "national news' broadcasts was a story about revitalizing downtown areas back East like the San Jose project you pictured. It was stated that THEY ARE WORKING! I agree with the coments about the car dealerships also. When the new "auto mall" is built, they will be gone. Correct me if I am wrong, but the developer Petrovich has already purchased the property that Citizens Chevrolet is on, and has made an offer on the Holy Rosary property(Church, hall and parking lot). Rumour has it that he is planning condo's with underground parking. I have lived here since 1978 when the population was only 28,000. We too moved from the Bay area. This is home, and we will die here. I firmly believe that we should revitalize the "Downtown" and make it an area that we can all be proud to show off!!!

Take a look at Lodi, Ca. You don't have to close down the street-just make it attractive. They attract lots and lots of craft fairs to downtown, festivals, parades (notice s as in more than 1 at Christmas.)

Hello All. I live in Davis where downtown still thrives but often at the expense of other developments. In my view, our city/town should be viewed as the whole body of a living being. We can not remain healthy and enjoy life if any organ, even the smallest one, get infected or become cancerous. Same way, health of all neighborhoods of a city should be maintained with equal seriousness. If any neighborhood is allowed to be blighted the whole city will suffer. In my view City of Woodland has allowed downtown of the city to deteriorate. There may not be a single formula for revival that fits everywhere. Citizens of Woodland should define what their downtown area should be. In my view, citizen participatory process would be adopted for the revival of downtown area. I am an investor and own some properties in the city of Woodland. I would like to make more investments if I see better future of the downtown.

Karl You mentioned the same stores that would benefit yet it appears you think that the downtown ends and begins at between 3rd street and college. Typical scenario when the stroll goes on downtown. They ignore that there are plenty of business that are on those streets. Just look at where they close the streets. Why is that?? Being part of that clicky group?? I think Joy said it best there is a disconnect between business owners and leaders. Now there is talk of bringing a PBID (property based improvement district) back. So is that the answer? Don't know. It didn't work when there was one in the past. Then there was the city funded program that Joy was a part of (they tried) that was unsucessful (sorry joy but that is the truth) the downtown improvement association has done nothing since.

Dave flory said when he was Mayor(when wasn't he) he would put more focus on the downtown. Make it a priority. Well dave were still waiting for that political promise to happen. Hey aren't you Mayor again? We'll see. What I think needs to happen is this. Not allow the same people in the City's planning dept to be in control of the downtown businesses. If the PBID was to pass. Appoint a committee that is our planning dept for the downtown so we deal with issues ourselves and then present it to the city council. Yes we could have a city staff person there for advise on rules put nothing other than that. Next revisit the downtown specific plan but only for the downtown. It seems to fit yet there are many problems that were not addressed.

One big problem that I feel is that there are to many service related businesses downtown. (not there should be some just to many (ie, addeco, Express personnel, funeral place (across from gregory's) Why how many people do you know that are visiting and decide to stop in an check on casket prices. (shaking my head on that). Those do nothing for people shopping downtown.

It's like this, people say there is nothing to do downtown yet there is. Problem is that it is scattered and no cohesiveness going on. We must create a desire to come downtown. Create events that people will drive from other places to visit. We don't have that yet. Unless you want to visit all of the mexican restaraunts. Sorry but it's a fact. Or maybe they want to come to Woodland for 1 of our 3 denny's. Whatever the case we must create events, uniques shops, instead of the same old things that offered around town.

Okay sorry and am ranting but I think you get some of the points.

By the way Karl you need to include

Pacos and Nenas Boutique and Flory Jewelers and Sears and Dragonfire Toys and Blue Wing Gallery on your list of other businesses that will benefit from an improved downtown.

how about turning the mall into an Indian casino? maybe people would stop in Woodland rather than drive through...

The PBID should only happen if downtown property and business owners want it. Personally, I think the less government, the better. Past subsidized efforts have been ineffective and have not provided any sustained, cohesive strategy for revitalization. I do not have vested interest in the proposed PBID area, but I do know vested parties who are against it.

It all comes down to making things happen - - and city government makes that difficult. Personally, I would like to see the downtown area spread north and south, making Dead Cat Alley, Court Street, Dog Gone Alley and Lincoln Street more lively. Main Street is now like a tube, serving mostly cars.

I say put STOP SIGNS (remove the lights) at every intersection with diagonal parking, more trees and more "old-west" canopies for shade (like downtown Palo Alto). I would like to collect all the old ideas gathered during the community workshops in the early 90s (plus the ideas presented in this forum) and present those to the Planning Commission.

Want to see an event downtown? Organize one! Want a particular business downtown? Start one! Want the Planning Commission to stimulate downtown activity? Tell them!

One last thing... the passage of Measure A will not help downtown revitalization. Now that the urban limit line has been expanded by the voters, development will be concentrated in those new urban areas opened up by the measure.

There is a lot happening downtown that people do not see. It just takes time to fix something that has been broken a long time.

A new downtown theatre is coming. New townhouses downtown are a real possibility in the near future.

Get rid of the street lights, block off some of the north-south streets, and create opportunities for sidewalk commerce. All great ideas that need to be pushed.

Time and commitment is needed. Stay the course, things are happening.

Does anyone remember when Main St. was thriving?! Everyone was on Main St. back in the 80's before the City of Woodland decided to screw it up! It used to have 4 lane and limited parking. People would use it like they used to if it was restored to what it used to be like. One comment about Cache Creek Casino...too bad we ever allowed the tent to go up in 1985!

Wow!! You have just about taken the words out of my mouth but added MUCH more thought and detail. I love your thinking and bold attitude towards what is wrong with woodland and how we could fix it. I say WE becuase everyone knows that the city counsel will spend a trillion dollars on studys and then come back and say there is not enough $$ for the project. Keep up the GREAT WORK.

Has the City Council has spent a lot of money fixing the downtown? If so, can anyone tell us how much the city has spent on the downtown and on what it spent the money on??

What the #@&! since when is the downtown only between 3rd and college. THe guy who wrote the article above says shut the downtown between 3rd and college. Why just those streets what about the other businesses that are on the historic streets what do they have to do be included in your proposed plan ?

Less we forget that they too contribute to the sales taxed base which in turn helps fund city projects so lets look at the big picture folks its not about just certain property and folks in this town it's about being a community something that I feel we are losing it becoming more of a dog eat dog scenario. Hidden agendas, political favors, enough already. Get rid of the same old group that has lead us down that path again and start a new one with fresh ideas and forget the past and wrok on the future.

You call for fresh ideas, but then you slam Mr. InsideWoodland for his ideas not meeting your specs. Maybe you're just part of the problem you complain about...

I think the stores that you mention that you think should not be part of Main Street may not be quite fair. Woodland is an eclectic mix and if we add more to the mix those stores will fit into the scheme of things. When I retire in a couple of years, I am going to open an "interactive art" gallery and I was thinking of the space next to Sam's. I want to invite all my artistic friends, oil painters, sculpters, watercolorists, woodcarvers, pottery makers and more to joint me. We will work in real time and people can come in and watch and sign up for classes in all types of art. I intend to have showings of "local Woodland artists", lectures, wine tastings etc.

As far as the noise makers that drive by - well that is up to the Highway Patrol to take part in your plan.

To close down the street would take planning. We would need comuter busses that pick folks up and drop them off where they park their cars.

We need to attract those millionaires you speak of to invest in downtown. All the old buildings that are empty on top could be renovated into apartments. If you want to bring people downtown then give them a great place to live.

In addition there needs to be an open air market downtown too.

Before spending all the big bucks, start small with a Main Street Friday Night of Music. By the Opera House have a quartet under the stars and sell wine and cheese. Invite all those vendors that stage the Sat Market at Davis to come to Woodland one day a week.

But more benches on Main Street with umbrella's and lots of nice trash cans. Start with one block and see how it goes.

Just some thoughts.

I think you are correct on your comments.

Sadly, this comment came from the same computer as Mike G. Looks like someone is trying to create false support for their point of view.

A few thoughts: 1) I imagine that downtown Woodland is the only downtown in the entire United States (and Canada) that Starbuck's does not want to visit. 2) Although Davis is an unpopular topic in Woodland (it is conspicuouly absent throughout your article), our neighbor offers a fantastic example of what could be done if the city government committed actual effort to downtown rather than just lip service. 3) While many of the old-timers in Woodland crow about the "historic" value of downtown, the fact remains that history does not bring shoppers. Many of downtown Woodland's buildings are far past their prime and would need to be gutted or demolished to be even vaguely attractive for a retailer.

I really like your idea about closing off some streets to traffic and really jazzing up the area with more quaint stores and restaurants, but you have neglected to mention a huge part of the downtown right now and that the Woodland Opera House. Maybe you have never been, but some shows in the past have had a cast of over 100 people who bring lots of people in to see shows who want to go to dinner somewhere and make an evening out of it. During the run of a big show, the Opera House brings in people from all over the area and a lot of times busses from the bay area come in for Sunday matinees. For people who love theater, the Opera House is a huge draw, but unfortunately Woodland and our downtown in it's present state, is not. We could also use a better place for holiday events and community celebrations. Hope it can happen someday!!

Main St. will be a ghost town once Costco, etc. come in on the other side of town!!

Thank you for providing this site - it is fantastic, like the 'Michael Moore' of Woodland!

good article. but alittle bit to mean to say all that about jim. he is my neighbor and that is just mean. he is a really nice man.

Great article, we need to think about ring roads on the edges of town, get cars off Main Street. We also need to sequence traffic lights to move traffic on the ring roads. Downtown is dying from high rents and the low-brow mentality of the Main Street property owners all they want is more rent from failing bussiness. Adapt, or die that is the reality of the market. If you need oil go to WalMart, more art, food and entertainment on Main Street is the long-term answer. Thank you

As a recent transplant from Boston, I have seen this work first hand. Roslindale Square, the downtown where I lived was much like Main Street, complete with tv repair shops and hair stylists for old ladies.

What changed it? A commitment from the people who live there, and a really cool icecream/coffee shop with free wireless internet (3 years ago, that was a bigger deal).

It will change. People who pay a million bucks for a house will demand it.

I enjoyed reading your article and the comments. A few of my own:

Downtown is very slowly getting better. USUALLY when a property sells, the new owner puts money into it to fix it up. The Hotel Woodland used to be an eyesore and a problem, the old Imperial Bank building was vacant for a long time, the projects that the Stallards have done on the south side of Main Street, the sale of the Capital Hotel and projected renovation, the Petrovich project at the east side of downtown, the lofts project on the west side of downtown, the Blue Shield and office building at the east side of downtown, among others. The problem has always been property owners (many from outside the area) that have owned the buildings for a long time and don't want to invest any money in them or have recently purchased them as an "investment" and don't want to put money into them. There is an abundance of upstairs office space available. If someone wants a space, post it here! The PBID (property based improvement district), not he BID we tried many years ago, is being proposed by the property owners to raise money from ALL the property owners to improve the downtown by having a hired employee to represent and organize downtown property owners and businesses to the city and others. It will NOT be operated by the City. I think we need to bring back the events and energy we have had at times in the past (usually when we have had a paid downtown coordinator). I hope that if you are opposed to the PBID, you are then prepared to donate a lot of your time to attending city council/planning commission/etc. meetings and planning and organizing events. I await your newsletters and look forward to the events...

Regarding comments made on the PBID: The proposed district will definitely be part of city government - - thus the term "district." The municipal requirement to collect fees (taxes) implies certain government contrals. The suggestion that attending council/planning meetings because of the lack of a PBID also implies government contrals.

A downtown coordinator paid by the PBID taxes will invite the same mistakes. Again, past subsidized efforts have been ineffective and have not provided any sustained, cohesive strategy for revitalization.

By a sustained, cohesive strategy I mean a plan - - not just newsletters and a Fourth of July Parade. The plan needs to be made by all vested partners of the downtown and needs to include long range improvements, beautification and marketing.

City government needs to take a laissez-faire approach to this effort. There are too many arbitrary restrictions enforced by only a few people. This is what's destroying downtown and economic development.

Why do you think the Chili Cookoff moved to the Fairgrounds? Too many fees, too many unnecessary restrictions. This is not to say the Chili Cookoff is a savior event, I'm saying it will be the sum total of events, capital improvements, street beautification, public art, marketing, economic growth, housing, traffic solutions, regulation reform, etc., etc., that will revitalize downtown.

If the PBID only promises a coordinator who attends meetings, organizes events and writes a newsletter, then I can see why many downtowners are opposed to it.

Well it seems as though someone has passed on the torch to you, eh? Or so you think they have. Who gave you the right to stand on your ill-built soap box and preach about your ideals as though they were law? Main St. is symbolic of Woodland and its attempt to preserve a sense of charm and authenticity should be idolized. I do agree with a small amount of what you say--very small amount--but no one has the right to say which store stay and which will go, just to conform to some "Pleasantville" scheme. I am glad to see so many stores up and runing after all these years as opposed to the ever-changing "trend markets" of today. Let the old ways thrive I say! Preserve what we can of our quickly vanashing past. Stand up against cheesy starbucks communities and buisnesses.

The PBID is NOT a part of city government. Contact Lisa Nava of Downtown Resources, the company assisting with the PBID process for more information, 916-325-0604. It is by and for the downtown and is an effort to make things better. There is currently no entity or organized group that is representing the downtown and that hurts us when we need something done.

I am happy so many seem to be concerned with the betterment of downtown and appreciate the opportunity to add to the conversation.

Looks like you're trying to set up your own soap box on Mr. InsideWoodland's back. Perhaps you should start you own site and share your ideas, you know, the ones in which nothing happens and the historic Woodland Main Street goes down the tubes.

I guess my last entry wasn't the last time afterall, but I need to address the PBID topic.

I believe last year the City of Woodland provided $50,000 of taxpayer's money to Downtown Resources of Sacramento to "study" the PBID. On their Web site, Downtown Resources state, "As the birthplace for Business Improvement Districts, downtowns continue to be at the forefront of public/private revitalization." This is what they do, set up city/private DISTRICTS.

If a PBID is established, the city will definitely have control of the "public/private" revitalization - - whether it's by ensuring the PBID taxes are collected or whether they're placating a special interest group.

An association, group or government district can theoretically work. I would just be cautious if this PBID "study" and proposal originated from the same ol' group of city officials and the same people involved in the past BID (same basic structure, different acronym).

This is why I like SA's suggestion that a downtown group be entirely independent of the city and would communicate directly with City Council. The $50,000 provided by the city, and the fact that a "district" is proposed, proves that the PBID is part of the city. There's no way around it.

This is an interesting exchange of posts, but I don't think we're getting anything accomplished. I don't know how else to convince you that the PBID is a property owner initiated and paid for legal entity separate from the city. It will undoubtedly work with the city and county and any other entity to improve the downtown, but it will have its own agenda with its own board of directors. I believe the $50,000 actually came from WalMart mitigation money or Home Depot (The city received money for downtown from both of those developments). My understanding is the County will collect the fees with the property tax bills. By the way, as a property owner, the city will be paying into the proposed district.

As to the "same ol' group", I don't know who that is. I can say that the old BID(it had a very short life, measured in months) was based upon the taxable sales of the businesses and the PBID is raised from the property owners on a square foot basis and based upon the area of benefit (Main Street is the highest).

The fact that the city provided the $50,000 to start the process only means the city wants to help the downtown help itself. The city has for many years wanted the downtown to be self-sufficient and this is the means to do it. But, the city still must provide the same "level of service" after the PBID as before.

One last point on the PBID. It has a five year life at which time the property owners have to vote again to continue it.

Hate to make this a conversation about the PBID, but I strongly believe that it is the first step in making other beneficial things happen downtown.

Lindsay, I do not mean to suggest that Starbucks is the savior of downtown Woodland, merely that its absence is an indicator of the poor health of the area.

I would embrace a unique and vibrant downtown but it is ridiculous to suggest that the current downtown is even remotely close to that.

Wow, a wide variety of opinions, all of which have some very valid points. Here's the way I see it. Downtown is broken, badly. Major surgery is the only way to save it. Costco and Target by the freeway are not ruining downtown. Wal-mart is not ruining downtown. Downtown is ruining downtown. The lack of action is destroying downtown.

Maybe there is something to this PBID, but the key is ACTION, not TALK (a favorite activity of the City Council)

Karl, Run for Mayor, I will vote for you!

I think we should run a ad in the newspapers The ad should read. "Wanted" Miracle Worker Community Development Department City of Woodland. Then maybe we can get rid of the staff in there that is causing problems for business owners to locate here. Think I am being harsh? Well ask businesses who have encounters with our city about getting started downtown and then you will find the same complaints over and over again.

Better yet read the report that the chamber of commerce did on the city staff. Wow then you will start to see the beginning root of the problem. That's the best place to start.

On to the PBID. It seems that the user Peter claims it to be very good for the downtown. Well I don't disagree or agree with that. I do however have a problem when you want to create PBID inform the property owners whom you want to tax. Many of my friends who own property have not recieved any notice of your groups intention of this. (Please no excuses that you sent it out) Been there heard that standard excuse. I think that if we are going to impose a tax then we should be doing a certified mailing to those property owners so that there is no excuse when we are a the city council meeting that they were not notified of this. (Yes it cost more to send it certified but it will solve alot of problems in the long run)

Next who is giving us an expense breakdown for the 50,000 dollars that the city has given (if that is the amount) Can someone post that information here.

So what group will oversee this money? Who are the accountable to? The same group that is the WDIA??

If so sorry but no thanks they have done nothing since the contract from downtown cordinators office expired. Time to find some people who want to create some fresh ideas not the same old thinking. Those people complained of nothing being done and yet they are doing nothing at all.

The downtown coordinator tried to do things without success due to exactly what Joy stated.

There are so many things that can be done I don't want to imply that things are all bad. There are some positive things happening downtown. Yes better late then never.

So many issues so little action and assistance from our city. Time will tell.

Last comment Peter you rent your building will you be passing on that tax to your tenants?? I know I will.

This is great dialogue! I personally made a commitment to limit my gift shopping to all downtown Woodland businesses as a way I could do my part to help in the revitalization of downtown. Between Tazzina Bistro gift certificates, the Next Chapter and the Gifted Penguin, I was actually able to pull it off.

What other actions can Woodlanders take to help bring things to life?

I found Peters last words in his paragraph interesting " I hope that if you are opposed to the PBID, you are then prepared to donate a lot of your time to attending city council/planning commission/etc. meetings and planning and organizing events. I await your newsletters and look forward to the events... "

What has this board member of the Downtown Business Improvement Associationd done? Nothing no events, no newsletters. Practice what you preach Peter! As to donating time, it comes with the job and the desire for downtown to succeed.

Woodlander,

My point exactly. The Woodland Downtown Improvement Association is no more and nothing has happened since Joy (and Gary)did their organizing and coordination. Or you can go back to BJ Ford and all the work she did. The WDIA ebbed and flowed depending on the President and volunteers at any particular time. I will be the first to admit that I don't have the time to organize and run events, do economic development, and represent the downtown to the city council, planning commission, etc. That is why I believe we need the PBID so we can hire someone to coordinate those things with input from the the downtown. Since I have been here, downtown has always been a conflict in personalities and direction. But, in spite of those things, I believe the downtown is a better place than it was 10-15 years ago. I also would like it to be more like Nevada City, Carmel, or even Davis.

The downtown is better than it was 10-15 years ago. Thanks to who? Certainly not to the people you mention above. It' due to the business owners and property owners fixing up our buildings and creating a more attractive downtown. Yes I agree there is a heck of alot more to do. However the people mentioned above by Peter don't own property downtown. As soon as their money was gone they left downtown. When was the last time any of you seen those folks in your business (except to ask for donations) make a purchase from us. I do see the Paul Hansen and others walking to Morrisons coffee shop in the morning. Good for them.

My wife and I shop downtown consistently. There is a lot to offer downtown. Just ask and you will find.

Shop Woodland, Shop Downtown after all what else is there the Mall?? Don't have enough time for that unfortunate mess.

John, I must state that I shop Downtown regularly. Not a week goes by that I do not make a purchase large or small or dine out in Downtown Woodland. Given my job history, I couldn't be more sensitive to the need to support local independent businesses. Sorry if you haven't seen me, but I try not to make too much of a spectacle out of myself.

And, yes, when there was no money left to pay me (& my colleagues) for our Downtown marketing work, we did stop doing the work. Like most people, I wake up & work each day to make money. If no one is willing or able to pay me any longer, I have no choice but to move on. I hardly think this is unusual! That said, it was a difficult transition for me when the Downtown marketing work no longer was available, as I truly loved & enjoyed what I did in Downtown Woodland for three years.

And, I do want to clarify the common misperception that the Downtown Coordinator's office had a contract w/the City (funded by Wal-Mart & later Home Depot mitigation - - not taxpayer $$'s) to "run" the Downtown. That was not the case. It was a MARKETING contract - - events, promotions, communications, outreach to potential tenants, support to WDIA & the like. We were required by the City to submit a comprehensive marketing plan each year, have it approved by Council & this was a public document available for anyone to review. No secrets about how $$ or time was spent.

The marketing plan each year was developed in part based upon input from merchants & property owners at regular morning mtgs. publicized widely. Of course, not everyone has to agree with the marketing approaches that we chose to pursue on Downtown's behalf, & we certainly never guaranteed that each & every one would hit the jackpot. But, there was a transparent process that strove to combine our marketing expertise with the ideas that Downtowners themselves wanted to explore or refine. It might not have always been perfect, but this was a whole lot more than Downtown has right now.

I was born and raised here. Main street used to have 2 lanes and angled parking. Then 4 lanes and a woman got killed getting into her car by a tomato hauling truck. Then a bright idea came out that there should be a divider down the center of Main Street with trees to seperate the sides. I thought that someone was finally going to do something that would attract people to the downtown area. Of coarse that got shot down by our City Council in favor of what we have now. There was talk a long time ago to make Court Street one way and Main Street one way the opposite direction. I like the porposed idea above and hope it can be taken a step further. Our biggest problem in Woodland is the City Council AND the Board of Supervisors. Can we trust them to do what is right for the City of Woodland? HECK NO! We get rid of one moron and we elect the next one that says that they are going to make a change and slowly but surely they fall in the same pattern as the rest. Big business, more tax revenue for us to spend, more of this more of that and NONE of it in the downtown area. Lets have an automall, ok part of an automall, ok not part of an automall, just a retail center. Oh and lets buy the Conway Ranch, you the public don't need to know the reason just trust us that we are doing this for YOU and you will be so happy when you find out what we've done for you. BULLS**T. I'd like to get some YOUNG people in there and fix this City. Then maybe it will be a nice place to hang out in. Me? My wife and I go to Davis often because we can walk around blocks and shop. I don't have to listen to the loud car radios and exhaust pipes that the Police in Woodland do absolutely NOTHING about. I go to the Tazzino Bistro and have to endure that noise inside the building and it sucks. It will take many levels of this community to get this done and make it a family friendly place. Will it happen? I hope so, but I doubt it too.

Regarding closing down Main Street: Perhaps a compromise; just close it down for special events and reroute traffice via Court Street and/or Lincoln Street. This works fairly well in Reno. Would love to see State Theater spiffed up a bit and more sidewalk restaurants. Having moved back here after 23 years' absence, my husband and I were delighted with Ludy's, the Cookie Factory, Gifted Penguin, etc. Downtown has so much potential! Regarding restaurants: Woodland needs major help! I agree that three Denny's is overkill.

Okay, I work at Tazzina Bistro and I think that downtown Woodland is a joke. The downtown business association and the city of Woodland do everything in their power to make business not want to open up shops or restaraunts. I do see reasons for rules to keep Main Street looking nice, but Hi what about the businesses that are ran down, empty, or look like crap? Who's telling them that their signage must be in a choice of 4 different shades of earth tones or that their patio can only be 10 feet on the sidewalk with no external lights? lol

I do think what has made other downtowns in small cities work is festivals and farmers markets. Why the hell is the Farmers Market at the Mall? Can anyone explain this to me? Theres Freeman park and the courtyard at the Opera House.

Another complaint is hours businesses are open on Main Street. Whats with everything closed on Sundays and closing at 6pm? I keep trying to make it to Unique Coutoure, but they are never open. I love how The Next Chapter store has hours that benefit from us being open late and vice versa. What also works in other towns are shops that people want; Candle shops, art stores, wine shops and deffinitely more restaraunts. Enough with the Antique shops and taco places. WE HAVE ENOUGH!

Im excited to see what becomes of the mall. The improvements are great and it looks 110% better each time I go in there. Lets just hope they fill the open spots.

Parking is a huge huge huge huge huge problem in downtown. The 1 hour parking sucks and the city parking lots are full during the day. What about a parking structure or garage?

I think Woodland should be looking to Vacaville or Folsoms downtown.

Here we go again. Parking downtown has become the target of discussion. Well lets look at who is complaining again, the locals the ones who want to be able to park right in front of where they want to go. Think I am wrong on this look around when you come downtown.

So lets give some history, The county moves the DA office to the second street location doesn't plan for all the staff to have parking, staff is constantly parking behind ludys thus taking up parking for potential tax paying shoppers, next the city staff parks on first street, and in the lot taking up again parking spaces again.

Yet there is a parking lot that the city spent alot of money to fix up and yet many of their workers don't utilize it. Citing that they have to have their cars closer. The city says they can not force the workers to park there. Why not, as business owners we tell our employees they are not allowed to park in the stalls that are close to the entrance. No lawsuit filed that I am aware.

Then there is the court house for jury duty that uses up parking spaces. Potential jurors are constantly looking for safe places to park. Thus creating a bigger demand. Because all the county workers are parking in the spots the jurors need. So the locals again are creating the problem and thus complaining about it. If you keep expanding and growing into the area that doesn't have the allocated parking you have created the problem. So what is the solution some people have said a parking structure yes that would be nice, the reality of that happening is not for a long time.

I think we have many spaces available to use. ie the lack of use behind the hotel woodland, the lack of use of the old epperson lot, the vacant lot next to fourth street, We have the spaces we just have to make them useful. Work within our means as of right now. Will that stop the locals from complaining probably not but it can't hurt. One last thought why is when out of towners come to downtown they rave about the ease of parking (except if they get a ticket in the red zone). So those of you locals stop complaining about the parking. The real issue is creating more things to have and to do downtown that will be so exciting and fun that you won't care how far away you have to park to attend the event you will just be glad that you attended that great event and talk about what a great time that you had. So let see what anyone else has to say about potentail parking spaces downtown. My guess is that there is alot more than we think that could be used.

Oh by the way where in the downtown as jeremy states is there parking only for 1 hour downtown. All the signs say 2 hours except the green zones 30 mins there.

Behind NVB Bank is only 1 hour parking however that is a privately owned lot by the Stallards They charge their tennants for parking there. Just as I am typing this if it is a private lot and the sign says 1 hour who enforces that?? Cannot be the Woodland PD

Great idea. This town is so doring. Somebody take a chance. What is were waiting for anyway. It's not going to happen on it's own. I've been here all my live and I love Woodland. I my heart it's a beautiful town, visually it's not happening.

Closing downtown to traffic wont work. We need to make downtown attractive to business owners. Plant some trees,have the police patrol the area.Make it a place you can take your kids,not worry about the scum that hangs at THE STAG. Woodland can be awsome,just look at downtown vacaville,the real problem is the schmoes who run the city,they are worthless, nice ob on the comunity center, how about spending some money on the downtown area...are the town meetings we can attend to let the city officals know we are tired of the crappy look of this city...NOT THAT THEY CARE.

In response to a few points raised by Jeremy from Tazzina... a) the Farmers' Market is at the Mall because the farmers like having it there & have been successful there for a number of years now. In years past (long before my involvement Downtown), there were attempts at having the market in the Heritage Plaza area & it just did not thrive, the farmers were unhappy, etc. I think the Gibson Road exposure has been good for them. b) we have looked to Folsom & Vacaville, in fact the Downtown Coordinator's office invited representatives from these & other Downtowns to WDIA meetings several times. Those business owners & City officials & others who chose to avail themselves of the opportunities to meet these folks seemed to be interested at the time (approx. 3-4 years ago) in what they heard, but took little or no action on this information subsequent to that. It's the old "you can lead a horse to water..." thing, I guess? c) there really is enough parking for the level of present business activity Downtown. I think structures, given the expense & logistics, will have to wait for a time when the vision & the projected demand come together to create the potential for financing for this kind of project.

Great ideas. They need to transformed into action. Words are beutifull but action is supreme. Stop talking and get actively involved. I challenge those of you writing on this topic to come to a City Council meeting; present your ideas and then join or create an action group to make these ideas a reality. If the City council members do not respond, then elect new ones. We need a community action group not a talking group.

Yes...but thinking, talking and consensus are required first steps before action.

Yes!!~ Close down part of Main street permanently Maybe even have the Woodland Certified Farmers' Market in the street area, that would be pleasant! Nice trees, benches for sitting and eating food purchased for local businesses. You don't need the Davis Farmers' Market in Woodland We already have a Farmers' Market which is continually growing. Main street permantlly closed, shade, parking near by would attract all the people presently coming to the market at the mall and then some!!

I've lived in Woodland all my life and when I want to eat ice cream under a shade tree and watch interesting people who I'm not afraid of, I go to Davis. When I want something other than Mexican food I go to Davis. When I want to buy a book I go to Davis. When my daughter want to hang out with her friends they take a bus to Davis. When I drive down Main and see people walking down the sidewalk I think a) resident at Woodland Motel b) out-of-towner who doesn't know better. In one town I don't recall the name of closed Main St to one lane so you have to take the next road over if you want to go the other direction. So, if we made some sort of loop people would still drive by the shops and maybe we could build more businesses on Lincoln too. And have places for nice quiet people to sit and eat ice cream. And we could have the trees lit up with those little lights so we could take a stroll after attending a play at the Opera House without getting thumped at by some loud stereo system on wheels. And we could hiss at the scarey people who flick their cigarette butts into the streets. Oh, those people are our cops, never mind. One thing I do know is that Mr. Dallas Jackson at Jackson Medical Supply is a wonderful man and very generous and he's funny. He loaned me a pair of crutches yesterday before I could get a prescription from my doctor and I will forever consider him to be what business folks in Woodland should be like. I love him. Did I just say, "folks"?

I've lived here since I was 5 and have only actually stepped foot on Main Street 4 times. My family and I completely avoid that part of town, because honestly, it is a dump. I think your ideas are great, and it would most definitely make Woodland 100 times better.

In response to "why the hell is the Farmers' Market at the mall." Here is what you should consider, come to the Market at the mall and ask the Market Manager/vender why they are not in the city.

Dear Jane apparently you didn't read Joy's comments she told us why the Farmers Market didn't come to the city. Is she wrong on her comments ???

I think Dino should run for City Council!

I agree Dino should run for city council go Dino

Genius Idea, I only wish I had come up with it myself. Best of luck, I think you had better speak with a few people who can pull strings on this downtown business. I have a feeling it could quickly become a big political issue for our elections in November. Best of luck

The most shocking thing to me is that we have just come out of a massive building boom with low interest rates and skyrocketing property values, yet not a single building on Main Street has had a MAJOR renovation (the only exception being construction of the new building that houses the City Parks Department - gee, how did THAT happen????). I don't think the Next Chapter moving into Cranston's counts as a major renovation (have a look at the very top floor and basement!).

I understand that the city has offered incentives to fix up buildings, but has charged insane building permit fees that have made major renovations unprofitable. I also understand that there has been interest in renovating buildings, but exorbitant city permits have made it untenable. Please correct me if I'm wrong. It's what I heard from a building owner, and it explains a lot, so I'm inclined to believe it.

Matt Rexroad seems like a great guy to me, but I cannot look at the condition of Main Street and believe he has shown stellar leadership during his term as mayor.

Have a look at the condition of some of the larger buildings on Main Street, and you have to wonder who would WANT to have a business in one? Never mind the medical equipment and Jim's. There's more to do here than closing Main Street or changing the traffic and parking pattern - that's the easy part.

Interesting points made. So there is a push by Tom Stallard to have a PBID downtown saying that this will help improve the downtown. Let me ask you do you believe this to be true. He is out speaking with property owners to get their support he needs a majority to get it passed. My question is this. Does a self imposed tax on yourself really work?? Some say yes some say no. The problem as I see is who will be in charge of this? If it is a poltical favors for the same ol same ol. Then I say no way. We need fresh blood without hidden agendas in the downtown. Watch for the PBID issue coming up very soon to the council. Anyone know how much money the council has spent on this?? Sure would like to know what the council has spent.

As per the company who is ramrodding the P-Bid Downtown Associates the cost is from start to finish $50,000.00. If it doesn't pass the the vote---cost is $10,000.00. Don't know who pays that City?--mitigation funds from Wal-Mart, Home Depot??? Don't know.

The only time we went shopping downtown we got a ticket for parking 1" over a line you can barely see. We will not come back.

More details: I never shop in Woodland, although I live here. The mall is a disaster, the downtown area isn't very clean. The flowers aren't tended to, and there are few shops. Today I decided that I should support my small town. On my way back from dropping my son off to Kindergarten, I decide I'll stop today. There is a gift store I never go into because I usually have both children and the store is small and crowded. The traffic is bad. There is a big UPS truck double parked, but I am patient and get around him. There is one spot right in front of the truck. I decide to take it. No one stops as I am trying to back into the space. It's right by the store and easier with my three year old. We stop in the used children's clothing store. I am quick, because she's in need of her nap. I purchase a used children's book and head outside. We breeze through the gift store, my daughter is getting fussy. As I am coming out I see a police SUV. I wonder who is getting a ticket. Then I notice the officer behind MY car. I have no idea why, and think...are there meters? Then I see that she's written me up because I have gone over the red just a touch. That's when I get frustrated. I look at the so-called red zone. It's so old and dirty it is barely noticeable. I mention this to the officer. She agrees and says I can file and appeal. I ask her for the paperwork and she apologizes for not having anymore. Then she gives me directions and tells me where I can get one. She assures me it will be quick. I don't think she has a three year old! I put my daughter in the car and realize...hey, I have my camera. I take three pictures, but they really don't do it justice.

When I get to the police station, there is another woman filling out the same paper work and we begin to talk. She was upset too, because she received the same violation. Her car was just over the white parking line. We both agreed that Woodland obviously can't make any money from shoppers, so they just ticket everyone to raise some funds.

So, I am angry that for once I make an effort to support the small stores in my town, and I end being punished for parking close to an old flower pot. That's why it was a red zone by the way, because of a flower pot. So, I am down $40 for parking and $5 for an old book. Once I get home I look at my receipt from the book purchase and the time of purchase is 11:55 AM and the time of the parking ticket is 11:59 AM. It's just sickening. They really are just trying to get money. I WILL NEVER shop in Woodland again. I am sorry that the small shop owners suffer, but the city doesn't help them either. This is exactly why it's much better to keep shopping in Natomas and Sacramento.

Sac Bee regarding Main Street in Woodland - Look at the bottom of the page, for floatingfoam.com and Cache Creek. http://www.sacbee.com/325/story/35153.html

This is an email I sent to council, the planning commission and two civil servants:

I'm writing to alert you of a concept for the "abandonment" of Dead Cat Alley between Walnut and Elm Streets for two 6 story structures and underground parking facilities.

I'm not sure how the developer (City Center Lots) got the notion that this would fly - - speaking on the abandonment of the alley - - but an EIR has been distributed to property owners in the area. The notice was created by the city so I'm assuming (but could be wrong) that there was some guidance in the design of the building complex. The notice of preparation comes from Barry Munowitch's desk and the contact for the project is Paul Hansen.

The entitlement requests on the notice list: * Condominium Conditional Use Permit * Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map * Design Review * Modification to the Parking requirements * Abandonment of Dead Cat Alley

The Cultural/Historic chapter does not include the significance (past and FUTURE) of Dead Cat Alley, it only addresses the buildings that are proposed to be demolished.

It is unclear by the maps, what part of the alley will be abandoned - - or what that precisely means - - but it seems the parking structure is planned to cross the alley. This might occur underground, but again, it is not clear.

The value of Dead Cat Alley as a place of historic and artistic interest has grown dramatically since the Woodland Art Center started the Dead Cat Alley Nine Lives Project in 2002. Sorry to state the obvious, but the unique quality and history and potential for tourism of the alley would be ruined if it were blocked. The alley should remain clear for improvements (not blockages) from Nugget Market to Freeman Park.

In-fill projects are a plus to the community, but not if a unique aspect of historic downtown Woodland is eliminated. If anything, development along the alley should be done to enhance the current plans to beautify and renovate it (with paseos, patios, storefronts) - - not destroy it. My question is: Was there someone from the city who discussed the futility of this idea before the developer spent time and money on the design and EIR?

Can I count on each of you to nip this idea in the bud so we can concentrate our efforts on improving of alley rather than saving the alley?

In the meantime, perhaps Barry Munowitch can provide some clarification on what "abandonment" means to the alley. If the plan is to limit the alley to foot traffic - - and keep the open passage - - that might be acceptable. According to one of the maps, there does appear to be a nice garden area adjacent to the alley (if it is planned to remain an alley).

Thank you all for your attention to this matter. Written comments are due into the city by November 3. Consider this email one of of the first.

This is a response to the article that appeared in today's Daily Democrat:

Josh and Jim,

Thank you for bringing the issue of the possible Dead Cat Alley abandonment to light in your article today. In response, I'd first like to reiterate that I think the mixed-use in-fill project would benefit Woodland. Our community should be grateful that the City Center Lofts company has a vision that their investment will be positive for the downtown and will be profitable for themselves.

Secondly, the aspect of the project related to the abandonment of our landmark alley does raise a red flag for me - - and for the hundreds of people who support the work of the Woodland Art Center. The Woodland Art Center has formed many partnerships with downtown merchants through our Dead Cat Alley Nine Lives project. Since 2002, the city has been well-aware of our intent to improve and beautify the alley with historical, educational, and artistic projects. We have received grants for the specific purpose of enhancing the alley and promoting it as a landmark and tourist attraction. (Visit deadcatalley.org, made possible by the Sacramento Region Community Foundation.)

Contrary to your article's slant on my written statement, I did not suggest that the lofts should not be built. I asked specific questions about how the alley might be blocked and what the city means by "abandonment." If the mayor provided answers to those questions, your article did not include them - - and he has not communicated those answers directly to me. Further, I have yet to get those answers from any councilman, planning commissioner or civil servant. The only response I've received from a few community leaders is that it is a good project - - with no explanation of how exactly the alley will affected.

Also in your article, the mayor was quoted as saying, "Right now it's just a thoroughfare for cars." I'm hoping this statement was taken out of context, because it sounds like our community planners do not see the value of the unique, historic nature of Dead Cat Alley. The name of Dead Cat Alley has been used since 1873, when it was reported that Sam Ruland was burglarized there. Ulysses S. Grant was the President of the United States at that time.

Seeing the alley as only a thoroughfare for cars demonstrates a lack of vision for its potential as a destination spot and tourist attraction. The community and downtown merchants will benefit more in the long-run as the alley gains international appeal (like Lombard Street, etc.), rather than the short-term excitement of having new towers and a new parking lot.

In stating my concerns about the abandonment of the alley, I did not say the entire City Center Lofts project was futile. I do, however, think an idea to block the alley (if that is what abandonment implies) is futile because I think the public will not let this happen. For this, my concern is that such an idea was not addressed by city officials at the beginning of the planning process. If this is true, than this is an indication that city planners do not have their pulse on the downtown community. It also would indicate a lack of respect for the work of community volunteers and a lack of recognition and support for the Woodland Art Center and local historical organizations.

As it is, the eight-block continuous passage - - with all its history and potential - - is a priceless asset. Its unique story, of what has happened there and what can happen there, cannot be replicated. To block it would be like entombing the heritage oak at the gateway to Main Street. (Oh wait, that's already happened.) Like I said, the city has known about our plans to improve and beautify the alley since February 2002. I believe the City Center Loft project came to be only six months ago.

This issue can go two ways: 1) It could be an enjoyable, creative venture whereby the alley is embraced and enhanced with a fantastic building complex, OR 2) The public can be kept in the dark as to what the city has planned for the alley whereby the community will battle planners and the developer to save it. A quick and specific response to my questions would certainly go a long way in taking the more desirable first path.

Does abandonment mean that the passage is limited to pedestrians only? That would be a good thing as long as the public retains pass-through access. Does abandonment mean that the alley is blocked to cars AND foot traffic? That would be a bad thing. Does abandonment mean that the city gives up ownership of the alley? A public pass-through could still be retained, but I think the community should continue to own and control the alley.

Until the public can see the entire plan for the project and can get answers to these questions immediately, I suspect the city can expect a vigorous campaign to SAVE THE ALLEY.

Thanks again for publicizing the EIR process for this downtown project.

I can't believe that someone is actually saying that we should 'SAVE THE ALLEY' instead of build a project downtown that will bring LIFE to downtown.

Having 'Dead Cat Alley' is neat. It is fun. But does it really do anything for the city? No....of course not.

Bringing art downtown, that's fine, that's fun too. But it doesn't really produce much.

We really need to take care of the basics first. Create a good place for businesses, dining, and entertainment. THEN we can worry about saving Dead Cat Alley.

Until then, we should get our priorties straight.

Dead Cat Alley, the Lombard Street of the Valley? Come on! Everyone is complaining that nothing is happening downtown (especially Dino), then someone wants to do something and it's a tragedy. The "Alley" isn't something to preserve over a great idea to revitalize downtown.

Absolutely Crazy and So Cal Transplant should actually read what I write. Show me where I wrote that we should save the alley INSTEAD OF build a project downtown. The scope of the project and the meaning of "abandonment" of the alley were unknown to many at the time I voiced my concerns. The alley is definitely something to preserve along with other efforts to revitalize downtown - - just ask the developer of the project. He responded to my concerns about abandonment as soon as he got wind of it. Meanwhile, 14 city representatives had a chance to answer my specific questions (see above) but chose not to. After I heard from the developer, I sent the following message to those I emailed earlier:

***

Larry Andrews of Vacaville is one of the developers of the City Center Lofts project. He has stepped up to answer the concerns over "abandonment" of Dead Cat Alley.

He made sure to contact me directly and included this in his email (I'm sure he wouldn't mind me sharing it):

"When we requested abandonment of Dead Cat Alley it is for vehicle traffic only. We love the alley and are designing our project to highlight its potential as a pleasant and beautiful place to walk, shop, relax, eat at tables, listen to music and have outdoor art shows. We think cars between Elm and Walnut would seriously detract from that potential. So I want to put that to rest right away. As we get further into the design of the project I would welcome your input. We want our stretch of the alley to fit harmoniously with the rest of the alley and to build on the current theme."

I called him immediately after I read his email and thanked him for his quick response. His email and the phone call filled in many of the blanks left open by the Notice of Preparation of the EIR. He told me he wasn't sure what the legal implications of "abandonment" were as they relate to ownership. Also, the parking garage will be completely underneath the alley and will be for the residents.

***

I guess I'm not so crazy afterall. Here's a developer who wants to invest $60 million in a project that highlights the alley's potential. And Transplant... a So Cal firm is designing it. Looks like they see the vision you two are missing.

To S.R. In regards to your comment about just a touch over the red line. Well the PD also has a camera and they to take picture to proof the violation. Oops I bet you didn't know that. So according to the parking enforcement officers the rule is that unless your tire is more than 50% over the red line they do not write a ticket. Ask for the copy of your pic from the PD.

AS to the other lady being over the white line if your wheel is over yes you get a ticket. Most people say that the car behind me or in front of me forced me to be over the line. Bottom line if the only way you can park is illegally then you don't do it. But since most people are just lazy and looking for the quickest spot to be or park right in front of the place they want to go they will continue to get citations.

Old sac has parking meters, so does downtown sac. I guess we could bring that back. But I bet that would be objected to. :) AS for the small shop owners downtown well I guess they have heard that story before. You know what I do find interesting is that I have been a friend who does own a biz downtown and have been in there when kids , adults have come in and saked for donations and without batting and eye she gives them something. Then she always follows up with have you tried Wal-Mart or Target, Home Depot etc. You know what 99% of the responses are? They comment that they tried and that they have to get corporate approval or they have spent their budget. So S.R. remember that as your child gets older when they are looking for donations for their school. I know that is why I support the shops downtown. They support us.

Back to the issue. Downtown Woodland has so much potential that is not being realized.

First step is to determine what businesses attract people. What are destination businesses? Where do all of us who live in Woodland reluctantly get in our cars and make the trip to either one side of town or even in some cases drive to Natomas or Davis to enjoy?

Here are some suggestions:

Movie Theaters (real ones with modern sound, seating, and clean bathrooms)

Large scale retail (Target, Trader Joes, Borders Books, ect.)

Family Restraunts and nice cafe's (they'll pop up like mushrooms in a wet yard if you plant the right seed business)

Anyways, my point is we need to look at our Downtown for what it is now and then put together a comprehensive plan to re-energize it for the future.

If you want downtown to be a destination that helps attract people (and the money they bring with), we are going to have to sacrafice some of the old traditions of downtown.

First: Get rid of the auto lots downtown. I believe they can generate much greater business and tax revenue in an automall on the edge of town near Wal-Mart and Home Depot.

Second: Attract a couple of destination businesses (through tax and land incentives) to build square downtown (i.e. a multiplex theater, or a chain retail store that is willing to think locally and devise a store design that limits car traffic and parking problems (Look at downtown San Mateo for an example)

Anyways, The webmaster is right about the old vacant buildings and the blight they bring on Woodland. Becasue of the empty buildings and boarded up buildings it maintains a cycle of failure and detracts other private investment. The solution will require buy-in from the community and public investment. Leadership is key. Everybody needs to vote Nov 7

I for one do not want to have Rite Aid as the business for the entrance of our downtown. This does nothing for us.

Alright, im back and ready to make another comment on this subject. Obviously people want change downtown.

The Stallards have done a lot to revitalize the Cranston building and downtown. It now houses several new businesses: A nail spa, A book Store, A hair studio, A florist, and a restaraunt. Thats a perfect combo for people to stroll. Shop, get your hair and nails done, and dine. People just need to support downtown businesses. Yes, traffic and parking sucks. Nothing will get done if people just say that its not worth the trouble and to not visit those businesses. Businesses open because of a demand. If there are no shoppers, then there is no demand for new businesses.

So support the shops, or dont complain.

Should I ask how much the city of Woodland paid for that neon sign kiosk in Heritage square? lol

Yes. I have come to the conclusion that an over abundance of antique stores are a sign of a failing economy. Remove the car lots and put in a brew pub.

Finally someone wants to actually DO something about Main Street! It's awful. We need to make it more upscale to attract more people to create a great place to shop.

The other thing that seems like a no-brainer is to revamp the State Theater. It could be a nice place to see movies but now it usually smells like urine, my sound system at home is better and the bathrooms are falling to pieces.

It is great to see that so many people are interested and supportive of the revitalization of downtown. I have owned a business on Main Street for almost 2 years now, and I get people every day that never knew I was there. I think the people in this town avoid Main Street all together and I hope you all bring your business down town, and tell your friends to do the same, so we can stay in business. :)

Excellant idea! A Sudwerk Brewery in Woodland. No more comments!!!!!

excellent ideas, it would be nice to have culture downtown, there is potential.

I hate to say it but downtown pretty much went defunct when the mall opened in 1987. As a kid I remember venturing into Marlene's, and Breit's for clothes with my mom. And pretty much any kid born before 1980 should remember going into Foy's Toys until it closed in the mid 80s. At least Timothy's Bakery is still around! My husband and I had our wedding reception at Hotel Woodland and it was great.

Woodland could benefit from the State Theater being revamped in so many ways.

A brew pub would be great too. However in order for that to happen Woodland needs more yuppies.

Dude you should so take this plan to city council. I think they would even agree. The fact that college through 3rd would be a shopping are is by far the best idea I've heard about woodland since they said they where remodeling the mall.

i think it would be great to make downtown livler then it is right now i think that we need night clubs and and stores like american eagle it will make younger people come in same goes for the mall but it has had a verry nice extreme make over i think it looks goergoes they just need more store that go with the urban lifestlye

Wouldnt it be awesome for woodland to have a teen club to dance and have a great time! like everyweekend! YEAH! Do your parents approve of you going to the karaoke nights at bars..NO! but they would approve a teen club! to dance eat and socialize every weekend instead of the mall and wasting all your money just to buy that outfit you wanted but if this teen club only cost 5 bux to get in plus the food was good and cheap everyone would have a great time! Well Yes of Course, A night club would be great for like teens to hang aout and dance and have a good time! on the weekends! Theres free! space on Main street building perfect for teens to get their groove on! Like a club! Davis has a place called D.I.S.C that they have fun! But it would be great to have something like a night clubs to dance drink non alcoholic! Older people have bars to go to, I mean they have karaoke only on thursday's but parents don't approve of their kids going in bars, but if it was a teen club! They would! I just think they should it would be awesome!! Well please people consider this! And follow the statement!"

I heard the mall is being remodeled??? Please, someome tell me what dolphins and cobras have to do with Woodland? What a mess...so sad. I thought, great, two stories, updated and modern. No, I was wrong. I guess there just isn't enough money here. They'll never get big names in there like that.

People in Woodland constantly tease people in Davis, but please, I'd take their downtown over ours in a second. Just one little center like their Borders, Gap and Bath and Body, would be great. I agree with Annie, a cool brew pub...something updated and attractive. I never shop here, I would never want to go out here...I always go to Davis, Natomas, Sacramento or Roseville.......It COULD be so cute here......

Woodland Resident.... There is a problem with the "red" lines too...you could barely see them. They probably hadn't been painted in years. Dusty, cracked and no longer red. I haven't been back since last October, so maybe they have been painted. I really didn't expect police in a ghost town, five minutes after I parked. Yes, now I know that the police have cameras. The "parking police" seem to be the only thriving business! Too bad they can't spend some of that money they get from the only "trying-to-shop-downtown-for-once" people and put it towards...I don't know...repainting the red curbs every ten years or so.

Woodland Resident....OF COURSE parking meters would be objected in Woodland. It's a dump. There are always places to park...no one shops here. I hardly WANT to shop here, let alone want to pay for it, don't you get that? Yes, there are shopping meters in Sacramento, and I have NO problem paying there, it's worth it...They also have valet parking, BECAUSE there are tons of people filling up the great restaurants there and no where to park. To me that's NOT a problem!I would pay to shop in Davis, Palo Alto, Walnut Creek, San Rafeal, Novato, anywhere that's cute and fun, but Woodland...NO!

Thank you for the advice about my children. They have had to get donations for school or baseball, but we buy all the products, raffle tickets, etc. ourselves. I would never send them door-to-door or to a business asking for money. I CAN'T STAND door-to-door. In fact, we aren't doing baseball in Woodland again, because of it. I was shocked. It's so cheesy.

Home Depot, Walmart, and Target have to pay taxes to the city of Woodland, I am pretty sure it's based on their profit. So, They do contribute quite a bit to this city...m