Davis

The Davis General Plan designates the core as the cityÕs Òprimary commercial district.Ó However, for the past 30 years, the central core of Davis has changed little. Approximately 85 percent of the buildings are still one story tall. Of the remaining, most are two stories. As a result, the central core has not been able to attract large retail due to limited demographics.

Trader JoeÕs and Target are recent examples of missed opportunities. Considering that we have a large university co-located and capable of supporting downtown retail, we still have a Òvillage retail centerÓ in a city approaching 70,000.

By contrast, midtown Sacramento has four- and five-story buildings, great restaurants, active retail and a vibrant night life Ñ without the benefit of a major university.

Where do we get started to improve our downtown? The problem lies in the high cost of tearing down one- or two-story structures and replacing them with two- and three-story structures. In this respect, it is only economically feasible if the replacement buildings are four- or five-story buildings.

We could have a large number of condominiums and apartments supporting our retail. Unfortunately, our current zoning does not provide for this density. While it is possible to submit a proposal that would exceed current zoning, the design and staff review costs are prohibitive. As a result, property owners do not risk submitting a change that is viewed as a high-risk cost evaluation. Therein lies the answer to ÒWhat keeps the Davis core from developing and growing up?Ó

Until the City Council takes action to change our current zoning, stores similar to Target and Trader JoeÕs will locate in shopping centers outside the core. We all know the phrase, ÒIf you build it, they will come.Ó However, for Davis, the appropriate phrase is ÒIf you allow it, they will build it.Ó

Jim Kidd

Davis

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