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.
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]]>Celebrating Diversity and Women’s Leadership in North Park
As the Executive Director of North Park Main Street (NPMS), I am proud to reflect on the significance of both Black History Month and the start of Women’s History Month. These observances serve as important reminders of the contributions and struggles of historically marginalized communities, while also providing an opportunity for celebration and recognition. However, it’s crucial to remember that our commitment to diversity and inclusion should extend beyond just these designated months. We can show up and show out for our black and women owned businesses 365 days a year!
At NPMS, we advocate for North Park’s business community and administer the North Park Business Improvement District (BID). We believe in championing development that preserves our community’s historic integrity, supports it’s arts & culture, and promotes an urban, pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining environment. Central to our mission is the recognition that diversity is not only important but essential to maintaining a healthy and resilient community. Jane Jacobs, a pioneer in urban studies, famously championed the idea that urban diversity improves the quality of citizens’ lives. This sentiment rings true in North Park, where our diverse business community enriches the fabric of our neighborhood. From small local shops to large bank branches, diversity in businesses and business owners fosters creativity, economic growth, and a sense of belonging for all residents.
As we enter Women’s History Month, we recognize that women play a crucial role in shaping North Park’s business landscape, and we celebrate their leadership and achievements. To continue to promote the stories and success of this community, we will be hosting a women’s mixer this month, where County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe will share her experiences and connect with our community, further highlighting the importance of women’s leadership. If you are interested in being involved, please contact [email protected]
Women’s impact on our community is also felt behind the scenes at NPMS, we are fortunate to have Sandra Torres, our dedicated community engagement coordinator. Sandra’s tireless efforts ensure the success of our community events, from ribbon cuttings to business forums. Her commitment to promoting a vibrant community is truly invaluable, and we are grateful for her contributions.
As we reflect on the significance of Black History Month and look ahead to Women’s History Month, let us remember that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords but fundamental principles that should guide our actions every day of the year. Together, let’s continue to build a North Park that embraces and celebrates the richness of its diversity.
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]]>A Past, Present, and Future of North Park
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A Walk in the Past
This past month, North Park Main Street had the opportunity to take a historical walking tour of North Park’s Commercial District courtesy of the great folks at the North Park Historical Society. It was amazing to listen and learn about the history behind our built environment. On pretty much every corner of our neighborhood, there is a story behind the building or behind the people who developed our community.
We learned about where the last Piggly Wiggly stood, how West Coast Tavern got its name, and how 40 acres of citrus farms were developed into a urban mecca for shopping. The past of North Park has directly informed its present, and North Park Main Street stands by it’s mission to champion development that preserves the community’s historic integrity.
If you love history, North Park, or both, we strongly encourage you to connect with the North Park Historical Society. They host meetings, provide guided tours, and have produced several books on North Park’s history that you can find in North Park bookstores.
Appreciation of the Present
The Observatory (formerly the North Park Theatre) is a great example of our community unifying to support and preserve important aspects of our history. In the early 2000s a coalition of community members and city officials worked to upgrade this historical landmark. Their work to preserve the theatre also helped support the efforts that eventually led to North Park Garage and North Park Mini Park, both which service crucial functions in our community today. This highlights how we can preserve key cultural landmarks of our neighborhood while also building new, functional components that better serve and complement the existing environment.
Outside of buildings and parks, North Park continues to develop as a transit hub, another example of history repeating itself. In a previous version of North Park, you’d be hard pressed to find a place with better connections thanks to the early streetcar network. Today, 30th St & University Ave are crucial transit points for our rapid and frequent MTS service. We’ve also experienced an increase in multi-modal transit with the introduction of the bike lanes and improved bike rack coverage.
Communities continually evolve, and North Park is no different. Our built environment looks different as we adapt to the times and develop safe, walkable communities that support our needs. Changes are tough, and there are many tradeoffs, but North Park Main Street is excited about new developments and what it means for our long-term future. However, we do not forget the importance of our history and preserving pieces of it that can both teach us about the past and serve us in the present.
Be a Part of Planning the Future
The future is upon us! In February, the City will finalize a major development that looks to improve the accessibility of North Park by finishing up the University Avenue Mobility Plan (UAMP). This long-awaited capital improvement project increased ADA compliance, added landscaped medians, improved traffic safety, and will be implementing a dedicated bus lane on University Ave.
Additionally, the City is completing pedestrian curb extensions around the North Park Mini park to improve traffic and pedestrian safety. NPMS is also working on exciting transit projects to help support and increase accessibility in North Park. These projects include neighborhood electric vehicles deployed through an on-demand shuttle service, increased education about the services and programs available at the North Park Garage, and continuing to promote improved employee transit benefits. These developments are a part of the overall push to support a safe and walkable community.
On top of city improvements, North Park anticipates further mixed-use developments coming to our community. There are several applications in with the City for multi-story developments that will help further North Park’s vision for a diverse, transit-oriented community. NPMS’s role in development is to champion those efforts that keep true to our neighborhood character and integrity. That is a tough role and requires a lot of engagement and input from our community.
North Park Main Street has been grateful for our active and engaged Board of Directors for the past two years. These individuals have played key roles in providing guidance and support as our community has navigated various challenges. We are excited to open up our election season and invite North Park property owners and business owners to join our Board of Directors. If you have a business or property within either the boundaries of North Park’s Special Enhancement District or Business Improvement District and resonate with our mission, we encourage you to apply to become a board member or contact us to learn more about the opportunity.
The Application window will be open from February 6th to March 8th. The voting window will be open from March 14th to March 28th.
We look forward to the continued collaboration within our community to elevate North Park to its highest potential as the premier neighborhood to live, work, and play!
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]]>Reflecting on a Remarkable 2023 and Anticipating a Thriving 2024
The North Park Business District has been bustling with life and transformation, owing much of its vigor to the tireless efforts of our local business leaders, engaged property owners, and determined residents. As we bid farewell to an eventful 2023, it’s time to reflect on our milestones and gear up for the promising journey that lies ahead in 2024.
Looking Back on 2023: A Year of Progress and Collaboration
Throughout 2023, NPMS orchestrated coffee chats that brought together our elected representatives like Congressman Peters, County Supervisor Montgomery-Steppe, Mayor Gloria, and Councilmember Stephen Whitburn. These dialogues weren’t just discussions; they were avenues for community engagement, where the voices from our district could be heard and used to help shape how our leaders tackle the issues & opportunities present for our district.
We hosted four business forums, where the North Park Special Enhancement District (SED) and Business Improvement District (BID) programs were at the forefront of discussions. These forums served as the bedrock for uniting our business and property owner community, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared vision for our district’s enhancement.
We leaned into improving our maintenance operations with the launch of the North Park Maintenance App—a user-friendly app empowering business and property owners to swiftly communicate non-emergent sanitation issues to our dedicated maintenance team. They are the backbone of our district and have accomplished a lot during this trans-formative period. In 2023 alone, they removed 4,480 instances of graffiti and stickers, cleaned 2578 sidewalk blocks, power washed 1019 sidewalks, pulled 1035 trash bags, removed 900 large debris items, and beautified 375 tree wells and parkways. Their unwavering commitment truly makes them invaluable assets to our community. Our team also grew with the establishment of a new role within our organization—the community engagement coordinator—dedicated to fostering stronger connections within our community.
We organized 10 ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new businesses and witnessed a dozen others open their doors, infusing fresh energy into our streets.
We assisted in the creation of four captivating murals that added color and character to our vibrant district.
Notably, our signature events—North Park Music Festival, Taste of North Park, Shop Local Saturday, and North Park Winter Wonderland Festival—served as cornerstones of joy and unity within our district. The North Park Music Festival was even nominated as a top neighborhood event by the San Diego Reader, a testament to the spirit and vibrancy of our community.
Despite the challenges stemming from the pandemic’s aftermath—supply chain disruptions, staffing issues, inflation, and an overall increase in costs to do business — our district forged ahead, channeling resilience and determination in navigating these hurdles.
Anticipating an Impactful 2024: The Dawn of a Modern Golden Age
The fervor and enthusiasm for 2024 are palpable, not only within NPMS but also among the commercial developers we collaborate with. North Park is poised at the brink of its modern golden age, with more than $25 million earmarked for large developments in our district this year alone.
The forthcoming grand opening of the Bivouac Adventure Lodge, the proposed trans-formative development of the Sunset Temple property, and the exciting debuts of Drew Deckman’s Watershed and his son Sam’s new spot on 30th (not to forget Finca on North Park Way, Carne y Hueso on Iowa, and Leila on University among others) are testaments to our district’s flourishing potential.
This surge in developments isn’t solely confined to the big players; it’s a ripple effect of countless improvements initiated by our local business and property owners, painting a promising picture for North Park’s future. Despite the challenges ahead, 2024 holds the promise of propelling North Park as the prime destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Continued Momentum and New Initiatives in 2024
NPMS is not resting on its laurels. In 2024, we are set to unveil several programs. One such initiative focuses on enhancing transportation within our neighborhood, addressing a crucial aspect of accessibility for our district and visitors alike.
Additionally, our “Best of North Park” series aims to spotlight the impactful businesses and their owners who have been instrumental in shaping North Park’s vibrant and eclectic identity. Stay tuned for these enriching programs by signing up for our newsletter. You can also connect with us in person at our upcoming Business Forum on January 30th at Bivouac’s new Adventure Lodge.
EVENT PAGE: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/state-of-district-address-q1-business-forum/
As we stand on the precipice of a transformative year, the energy pulsating through North Park is invigorating. Together, we’ve overcome challenges, celebrated victories, and paved the way for a district teeming with possibilities.
We invite each member of our district to join us on this exhilarating journey, to be part of a story that transcends boundaries and sets new benchmarks in community engagement, development, and vibrancy.
Let’s embrace 2024 with open arms, with a shared commitment to elevate North Park to greater heights. Our district’s success is not just ours—it’s a collective triumph, a testament to the resilience, unity, and unwavering spirit of North Park.
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]]>Embracing Localism: A Vibrant Vision for North Park’s Future
North Park, a community brimming with creativity, celebration, and an unwavering spirit of togetherness, recently witnessed a spectacular Shop Local Saturday. Mayor Gloria’s presence at MILA North Park’s press conference added a touch of significance to the event as three influential North Park women, Michelle Gonzalez, Laura Weiss, and Anna Hopkins, were rightfully honored for their invaluable contributions to the neighborhood. The occasion was made even more joyous with the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Pinky’s Cafe, a new hub destined to be the epitome of coffee, music, and puppy love.
Shop Local and Shop Small are not just annual events; they are enduring commitments. Supporting local entrepreneurs is the heartbeat of a thriving community. 60% of businesses who responded to our post Shop Local survey said they saw a 10% increase or more in their daily revenue. 10% means a lot to small business owners who pour their heart and energy into their business. We are happy with the progress we saw this year and we aim to do even better next year!
One community member who embodies pouring her energy into her business is Lara from Bivouac Cider. Lara gave Mayor Gloria and I a sneak peek into one of the neighborhood’s promising new developments, the Bivouac Adventure Lodge. North Park continues to be a premier destination for entrepreneurs and developers looking to create something special. Just take a look at Chelsea C.’s Mable’s Gone Fishing, which landed in the top 50 of new restaurants in the US, or Drew Deckman’s next project Watershed. The anticipation will build as North Park Main Street gears up for its first business forum of 2024, which will be held at the Adventure Lodge for its soft opening to the community!
As the winter season approaches, North Park is transforming into a Winter Wonderland. The mini park is set to host a roller-skating rink on December 9th and 10th, a delightful opportunity for families and friends to revel in holiday cheer. Partnering with a Vegan food pop-up ensures a culinary delight, complementing the festive atmosphere. It’s not just about skating; it’s about creating cherished moments and fostering community connections while indulging in the holiday spirit.
You can learn more about the event here: https://northparkmainstreet.com/winter-wonderland/
Reflecting on the phenomenal journey of North Park Main Street in 2024, the enthusiasm remains unwavering. The privilege of leading this remarkable community is a constant source of amazement. Looking ahead, the call-to-action echoes loud and clear—to all who cherish North Park, to businesses and property owners vested in this community’s success, and to those passionate about community activation: join hands with us.
The upcoming year marks an exciting phase with elections for the board of directors. North Park Main Street seeks to deepen engagement and broaden support within the community. Your involvement—whether by attending board meetings, connecting with the team, or participating in committee meetings—will shape the future of North Park. Strengthening engagement amplifies our collective impact, enabling us to champion development that nurtures arts, culture, and entertainment while safeguarding North Park’s historical legacy.
North Park’s journey thrives on unity, resilience, and a shared commitment to fostering a vibrant community. As we stand at the cusp of 2024, let’s pledge to amplify our efforts, embrace localism, and weave a tapestry of growth, culture, and inclusivity that defines the essence of North Park—a community where every voice matters, and every contribution counts.
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]]>Empowering North Park: A Vision of Community and Mobility
In the heart of North Park, a vibrant neighborhood nestled in San Diego, we’re on a mission. At North Park Main Street (NPMS), our dedication revolves around promoting development that embraces arts, culture, and entertainment while preserving our area’s rich historical integrity. Through our mission, we aim to create a pedestrian-friendly haven for shopping, dining, and entertainment, all while championing our local businesses.
Two recent initiatives have illuminated our path toward a more connected and empowered community: Shop Local Saturday and the Clean Mobility Options Pilot Program (CMO) Grant.
Shop Local Saturday: A Celebration of Community
On November 25th, North Park will be thriving with the spirit of community and commerce during Shop Local Saturday. We will kick things off at 11 am with a press conference in front of MILA Vintage Boutique (2879 University Ave), a cherished local establishment. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria will be there to get us going with a few words underlining the significance of supporting our unique, diverse, and locally sourced boutiques and shops.
There is always something new to explore in North Park as it has become an incubator for a successful and eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary boutiques, breweries, and eateries. Entrepreneurs continue to choose North Park for its diverse array of people, central location, and community resiliency. People continue to explore North Park for its vibrancy, authenticity, and walkability!
Our business district will be buzzing with holiday activations, creating a festive atmosphere that symbolizes the joy of exploring North Park. We encourage our community to embrace the ‘Shop Local’ ethos, highlighting the immense impact individuals can have by choosing local establishments. With the wide array & eclectic options you are sure to finish your holiday shopping early in North Park and connect with your community!
As a token of our appreciation, we are offering free tote bags and small gifts to those who spent $75 or more at North Park businesses. To redeem your gift, stop by our booth in front of MILA (2879 University Ave) with your receipts. Gifts are limited to the first 100 verified shoppers.
You can learn more about the event and various activities around the neighborhood, by visiting our website at: https://northparkmainstreet.com/shop-local-saturday/
A Transformative Grant: Clean Mobility Options Pilot Program
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]]>North Park, San Diego, CA – The heart of North Park is beating stronger than ever, and there’s no better way to experience the vibrant pulse of our community than by joining us for the 2023 Taste of North Park, proudly brought to you by US Bank.
There is more to North Park than just the intersection of 30th & University. To help you explore the neighborhood, we are hosting three check ins. You can get your day started in the southern portion at Haven (3381 30th Street), the western portion at Louisiana Purchase (2305 University Ave) or right in the center at the North Park Mini Park (3812 29th Street). Each area of North Park has a slightly different vibe and energy. We encourage you to explore our neighborhood from end to end and find your favorite area!
This annual event has become a cherished tradition for both locals and visitors, and this year, we’re making it even more special by focusing on three key elements: sustainability, community, and celebrating our resilient small business community.
Click here to learn more about the event (url: https://www.tixr.com/groups/tasteofnorthpark/events/taste-of-north-park-2023-75789)
Sustainability: A Commitment to a Greener Future
North Park is not just a community; it’s a home we all share. To honor our beautiful neighborhood, we’re taking steps to reduce our environmental impact. This year, we’re thrilled to introduce reusable tumbler cups, generously sponsored by Diamond Parking, and reusable sporks from our community sponsor, Walkabout. These eco-friendly initiatives will help minimize waste and promote a more sustainable way of enjoying our delicious bites and sips.
Additionally, to reduce our carbon footprint and make it easier for everyone to explore our vibrant community, we’re introducing neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) to shuttle people around North Park. These NEVs represent a small yet impactful step towards a greener future and will help connect people across the last mile of their journeys.
In alignment with our sustainability efforts, our event coincides with Clean Air Day California. We invite our neighbors, businesses, and organizations to join us in pledging to take steps to improve our air quality. It’s a collective effort to ensure that North Park remains a breath of fresh air in our fine city.
Community: Bringing North Park Together
North Park is known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, brewers, and restaurants, but it’s our sense of community that truly sets us apart. This year, we’re excited to involve the Sisters of Saint James to help connect our community in engaging and unique ways. Their presence will add an extra layer of warmth and camaraderie to our event.
Furthermore, we’re launching a food drive in partnership with the San Diego Food Bank. We understand how fortunate we are to have an abundance of food and drink options in our neighborhood. This event provides us with an opportunity to give back and drive donations for a truly impactful organization. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those less fortunate.
Small Business Community: The Heartbeat of North Park
Our small business community is the lifeblood of North Park. While we’ve faced challenges over the past year, our community’s resilience shines brighter than ever. We’re excited to showcase the exciting places that have come to life in our community, thanks to the dedication of our business leaders and the unwavering support of our residents.
This event is a celebration of these businesses, both the well-established stalwarts and the dynamic newcomers. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of entrepreneurship that defines North Park.
The 2023 Taste of North Park promises to be a day filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and unforgettable community spirit. We invite you to join us in celebrating sustainability, connecting with our community, and supporting our incredible small businesses. North Park continues to thrive, thanks to the dedication and passion of every individual who calls this neighborhood home. Together, we’re creating a brighter and more vibrant future for North Park and all its residents. See you at the Taste of North Park!
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