Tell council to support Fulton Street project

2016 will begin my 40th year in downtown Fresno.

During this time, many of us have watched our city grow in every direction, more than doubling in size. Growth that has included the development of Woodward Park, new neighborhoods west of Highway 99, the construction of cross-town highways and so much more.

But the one project we haven’t seen is a fully revitalized downtown, including the return of traffic on Fulton Street. This project is long overdue and will pay great dividends to our entire community.

One of the clear benefits is that 100 percent of the construction cost will be paid for with federal, state and local grants – money that cannot be used for anything else. On Dec. 3, our city council will vote on the plan allowing the selection of a contractor. With any luck, by spring, construction will be under way.

After four decades of debate, it’s time for Fresno to embrace the simple fact that all great cities have great downtowns. I would like to encourage Fresno Bee readers to call your councilmembers at 621-8000 and encourage them to support the Fulton Street project and the economic activity it will create throughout our community.

This story was originally published November 26, 2015 at 2:53 AM with the headline "Tell council to support Fulton Street project."