HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/12/2024 Item 7c, HarrisDear City Council,
I am writing on behalf of Downtown SLO to express our strong support for the Mission Plaza
Restroom Project and its timely completion.This long planned project is crucial for enhancing
both the security and safety of Mission Plaza.
We support Staff’s recommendation for either option 1a or 1b,with a preference for 1b,as it
offers greater flexibility to adjust as needed throughout the process.We understand that the
council has already approved an increase in funding for the project in the past.However,with
the continued rise in inflation and labor costs,we are concerned that further delays may lead to
the project becoming unaffordable,with costs rising beyond the city's ability to execute the
project plan.
In our board’s view,the project as originally imagined and approved,presents a significant
opportunity.It will serve as the gateway to the Cultural Arts Corridor,with the Kiosk offering a
positive activation in the Plaza as compared the current situation which is undesirable and at
times unsafe.The project continues to build on the city’s commitment to infrastructure that
promotes walkability and bikeability,positioning the Plaza as a natural meeting point.The
improvements,activation and planned increase in lighting will create a safer environment for
regular patronage.
We urge the council to move forward with option 1a or 1b,to support the original vision,design
and effort that has been in the making for many years.
Thank you,
LeBren Harris
CEO,Downtown SLO
The mission of Downtown SLO is to foster an economically vibrant downtown.We help people and business grow and thrive;We
foster a feeling of belonging;We create community;We like to bring people together;We celebrate diversity;We practice optimism;
We are resilient;We actively promote a walkable,bike-able,accessible community;We cultivate sustainability;We value the
outdoors and respect our natural environment;We believe that a thriving economy depends on authentic connection.