Salinas City Center is Open for Business

In 2015, downtown property owners voted to form an improvement district and assess their properties. Early in 2016, the property owners formed a 501(c)3 public benefit corporation called Salinas City Center Improvement Association (SCCIA). SCCIA is now up and running, with a district manager and a full slate of volunteer committees working hard to implement the vision for a vibrant downtown.

There are two distinct areas of investment, funded with property owner assessments within the district. They are Sidewalk Operations, Beautification, and Order (SOBO) and District Identity and Streetscape Improvements (DISI). Each area has a full volunteer committee to develop its programs. A third committee, Land Use, works to ensure City, County, and Public Agency cooperation for new development and planning.

Property owners look to shape the makeup of downtown Salinas, to positively affect the business climate, and increase foot traffic, engagement, and entertainment. They support development of new residential units, professional businesses, thriving retail, restaurants, cafes, and services. The district should be a welcome and exciting place for young professionals, and a magnet for new businesses and jobs.

This modern, urban environment will be achieved through a series of measures, including beautification, safety, attracting quality developers, and development of a strong district identity and marketing campaign. We embrace the rich culture and history of our people and our town. While improvements have been dreamed of in the past, the new property based assessments allow the SCCIA adequate funding to implement its programs.

The SCCIA Board of Directors welcomes and encourages public input and participation in issues that affect our community. For more information on how you can get involved, please contact District Coordinator Greg Hamer.