Main Platform - Being smart about how we grow

Downtown Revitalization that builds upon the historic charm of our current downtown - For the past 4 years I have worked to establish a vision for downtown as a mixture of specialty shopping, professional office, and residential uses. In effect we’re going back to the land use mix that defined downtown Redlands 100 years ago, just updated to be successful in today’s economy. I’m proud to report that several projects are underway: Gateway Plaza at the Eureka and Pearl intersection is under construction. Expansion of Krikorian theaters with 3 more screens and retail space is processing. Planning for the redevelopment of the mall site and the 13 acres west of Eureka for commercial/residential mixed use are underway. This mixed use revival of downtown in a manner the complements the historic charm of Orange, State and Citrus Avenues, represents a private investment of $500,000,000 over the next few years that is vital to our city’s economic strength.

Safe streets for cars and pedestrians - An important part of being smart about how we grow is dealing with the traffic that it brings. I am working with the Police and Public Works Departments and the Traffic Commission on a “safe streets program.” The program includes educating drivers and pedestrians about traffic safety, low cost engineering improvements in our roads and sidewalks to improve safety conditions, and enforcement of traffic regulations. Our first priority is around schools. We are starting with Moore, Clement and Cope Middle School, and Lugonia Elementary school, with more to follow.

Open space for the public to use and enjoy – As part of smart growth for Redlands, I am pursuing 3 major efforts relative to parks and natural areas – dedication for public use of improved parks and natural areas well in excess of requirements as development occurs; building of the Orange Blossom Trail, a non-motorized trail across Redlands along the former rail lines and flood control channels; and the Santa Ana River Wash Regional Park, the long term planning and development of a 6,300 acre regional park to serve all of the east valley communities.

Accessible and open approach to government–During the past 4 years, working with others, whether my fellow council members, citizens groups, city committees and commissions; or individual citizens has been central to my approach to serving on the city council. I have done my best to be accessible, to listen to all points of view, to review the information to make the best decisions possible for Redlands now and in the future.