As we step into the vibrant month of May, I’m thrilled to share some exciting updates and initiatives happening within our community. From celebrating the diverse tapestry of music to advancing micro-mobility transit projects and advocating for small business support, North Park Main Street is committed to fostering growth and prosperity for all.
North Park Music Festival: Music Beyond Borders
Save the date for the North Park Music Festival happening on Friday, May 31st, and Saturday, June 1st. This year’s theme, “Music Beyond Borders,” embodies the spirit of unity and diversity as we showcase over 40 musical acts representing the creative richness of California and Baja California.
Prepare to be mesmerized by headlining talents including Fantastic Negrito, Louis XIV, Particle Kid, Ty Segall, Jackie Mendoza, and Parque De Cometas. From emerging artists to established names, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Immerse yourself in art installations, savor delectable cuisine from local vendors, and sip on refreshing beverages from our local brewers. Let’s come together to celebrate the cultural mosaic of our community. Secure your tickets now at northparkmusicfest.org and join us for an unforgettable experience.
Mid-City Community Shuttle: A Step Towards Enhanced Mobility
I’m pleased to announce tangible progress on the execution of the grant to fund the Mid City Community Shuttle project. While this is just the beginning of addressing our transit challenges, it’s a significant step towards enhancing mobility within North Park and City Heights.
This initiative will introduce three electrical shuttles servicing a section of Mid-City, with plans to expand in the future. The launch is slated for the summer of 2024, and we look forward to its positive impact on our community’s accessibility and connectivity.
Stay tuned as we get this program running. NPMS will be launching a Transportation Committee to provide oversight on the program and to drive community engagement and outreach.
Advocating for Small Business Support
As the City navigates its budget cycle, it’s crucial to remember the significance of supporting our small businesses. In the words of Barack Obama, “A budget is more than just a series of numbers on a page; it is an embodiment of our values.”
While we appreciate the city’s leadership and the funding allocated for crucial initiatives, we are disheartened by the lack of investment in the Small Business Enhancement Funding. Fully funding efforts to directly support our small businesses is imperative for our community’s vitality and resilience. Business District budgets across the city will be affected by the combo of reduction in financial support and rise in administration workload. Every year it gets tougher for our districts to meet the expectations of our community and elected officials, as the stable support to provide programming is whittled down.
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, comprising 98 percent of San Diego firms and employing 60 percent of San Diegans. It’s essential that we advocate for their support to ensure their continued success and contribution to our city’s prosperity. If you are interested in helping advocate for a better funded SBEP, please contact North Park Main Street. We can help provide a path for advocacy and are always interested in connecting with like minded partners.
As we move forward, let’s continue to champion initiatives that uplift and empower our community. Together, we can create a thriving environment where businesses and residents alike can flourish.