Fresno Famous

In this 3rd installment about our discussion with Craig Scharton, the Director of City of Fresno's Downtown Revitalization Department, we share the City's vision for Downtown Fresno. Craig was asked "was Downtown Fresno broken?" Or did it not fit some people's version of Utopia. It was mentioned that Downtown Fresno doesn't look like Riverpark, but is that a bad thing? We discussed the fact that there is a vibrant entrepreneurial community on the Fulton Mall whose businesses are patronized by a diverse population. Which leads to the question, who are we impose our 'value system' on Downtown Fresno and judge whether it's meeting 'our needs?'

Craig explained that the City of Fresno isn't imposing 'A single' view of what the area should look like, but rather focusing on the need to act like a hub to nearby neighborhoods, towns and communities. He said that as long as Downtown Fresno serves as a crossroads if you will, then it will be successful. The inhabitants of the various neighborhoods, towns, and communities will define the specifics. The most important thing to work on now is making it easier for the businesses, people and organizations to serve the needs of the diverse populations that  During our conversation, Shannon Handy of ABC News Fresno came to interview Craig. (This was a Sunday afternoon and the tireless director had two meetings in the afternoon) The camera man with Shannon mentioned how he used to cruise Downtown Fresno, immediately Craig asked "where did you come from when you went to Downtown Fresno?"  Ever diligent, continued to gather 'intelligence' on a bygone era, an era that included a bustling downtown. A downtown that kids from Kerman, Parlier, Madera, and Orange Cove would travel to so they could interact with others.

Right now Downtown Fresno is changing. The change seems to be for the good. More and more there is pride in the voice of a resident who tells others that they live downtown. There is comfort in the knowledge that good food, and quality entertainment is just around the corner.