The city of San Bernardino has announced plans to reopen its historic Downtown Street Alley as part of a broader initiative to invest in public safety and refurbished streets.
Once known as the Force Street Alley, the Sole Alley was a creative space for artists to film music videos and shows. But for decades, the alleys have been forgotten. It is now being refined as part of a $750,000 state-funded effort to help rejuvenate the community, according to board member Mantheodore Sanchez.
“We need to build transportation and housing. People need to live downtown with disposable income,” Sanchez said. “With the intention of doing business often, we’re working with the developers to build on a blank canvas of 43 acres in San Bernardino, a former Carousel Mall property.”
Gustavo Mena, the shopkeeper celebrating its fifth year in the city, said it made it difficult after a limited number of downtown operating companies risked opening there. However, he hopes that the reopening of alleys will encourage others to do the same.
“A lot of people said, ‘Don’t do that in San Bernardino – do it in Redland or Riverside.” They say it’s a safer way, but what’s the point in it?
City officials said millions have invested in public safety and street improvements since the city’s 2021 bankruptcy.
The first live event at Sole Alley, featuring music and art vendors, is scheduled for August 29th.
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