El Cerrito, California
San Pablo Avenue, the main commercial corridor in El Cerrito, (pop. 24,599) was an unattractive, auto-dominated roadway that was dangerous for pedestrians. Through some creative partnerships between the city the State of California, the non-profit community, and several funding agencies, El Cerrito was able to revitalize its section of the street.
City Manager Scott Hanin, Assistant City Manager Karen Pinkos, and Environmental Services Manager Melanie Mintz introduced the San Pablo Avenue Streetscape Project, which would create a sense of place along the roadway, make it pedestrian-friendly, and encourage private-sector investment. It was a multi-year project that produced great reward for the city.
Through community engagement, extensive collaboration with other agencies, cleverly identifying and leveraging outside funds, and a unified vision, the project included:
- New and improved pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure along the entire roadway
- Sidewalk rain gardens to retain and treat storm water runoff
- Restoration of Cerrito Creek
- A greenway at El Cerrito Plaza
- A LEED-certified city hall and civic plaza
- Enhanced art, cultural, and historical presence
Since its completion in 2010, the San Pablo Avenue Streetscape Project has created a more vibrant roadway within the city and has helped El Cerrito become a distinct and attractive place within the region. Economic development has increased. Bike and pedestrian access and connections to transit have improved. The project has also promoted environmental sustainability and community volunteerism.
The changes to the look and feel of San Pablo Avenue were dramatic. What was once an eyesore is now a source of community identity and pride.
Learn more on the city’s website.
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