Capitola officials are set to decide whether to spend $105,000 to on a plan to revitalize 41st Avenue, one of the city’s main commercial streets that has long awaited improvements.
The city council on Thursday will consider hiring SWA Group, an urban planning firm, to create a blueprint for upgrading the commercial strip, which connects shopping areas but has failed to reach its full potential, according to city officials. The plan would aim to attract businesses while making the area more appealing to residents and visitors.
The city has tried to improve 41st Avenue before. Studies in 2009 and 2011 recommended changes, some of which were added to city planning documents, but many ideas were never implemented due to cost and practical constraints.
The planning firm would focus on transforming 41st Avenue into what city planners call a “complete street,” designed for pedestrians and cyclists as well as cars. The plan would also look for ways to add housing along the corridor while improving its appearance and making it more welcoming to businesses.
If hired, SWA Group would study past proposals for the area, including suggestions for adding apartments and stores in mixed-use buildings. The firm would also examine ways to upgrade sidewalks, bike lanes and other infrastructure that could attract new retailers.
The company would hold community meetings to gather residents’ ideas about the corridor’s future. These discussions would help shape recommendations for everything from street design to a unified look for the area.
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