By David R. Shorey, East County Program Director, Institute for Public StrategiesMay 20, 2024 Lemon Grove) -- Community residents who attended recent listening sessions hosted by the Institute for Public Strategies (IPS) expressed concern about Lemon Grove’s main business corridor located along Broadway. Attendees cited graffiti, broken windows, vacant shops, and unkept store fronts creating a less-than welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
The corridor has some of the highest overconcentration rates for alcohol retailers in East County business districts at 800% over state guidelines. The presence of smoke shops, and until recent action by the City Council, massage parlors has caused further concern for the residents. The Broadway neighborhood residents, business owners and visitors say they have witnessed an increase in the number of unsheltered people who have settled in the area.
Broadway holds immense potential for transformation and growth. At the IPS listening sessions, about 65 individuals provided valuable insights into the aspirations and desires regarding the improvement of the Broadway corridor. The area is part of their daily routines. Some of the participants frequent its businesses often, while others visit only sporadically. However, the resounding feedback from the sessions indicates a shared desire for enhancement. While some find the current variety of businesses adequate, many residents expressed a longing for more diverse offerings that better cater to their needs.Based on feedback from the listening sessions, aspirations for Broadway are bold and varied. They envision a dynamic mix of establishments that reflect the essence of Lemon Grove including a blend of art shops, bakeries, bookstores, family-friendly eateries, and entertainment venues such as theaters and music spots. The desire for locally-owned businesses, affordable boutiques, and unique experiences was prominently voiced. Lemon Grove envisions a Broadway that caters to all demographics, embracing diversity and fostering a strong sense of community.
Beyond commerce, residents reported that they crave a vibrant array of activities and events on Broadway. From parades and craft fairs to outdoor dining experiences and cultural celebrations, the community yearns for Broadway to be a lively gathering place. Engagement with business and property owners is deemed essential. They were encouraged to take pride in their storefronts, actively participate in community events, and collaborate in revitalization endeavors.
A recurring theme from the sessions was the importance of inclusive engagement. Collaboration among various stakeholders including local government, business and property owners, community members, nonprofits, and neighboring communities is vital to the success of Broadway's revitalization. By fostering partnerships and embracing inclusivity, we can ensure that Broadway becomes a source of pride and economic vitality for Lemon Grove.
The input gathered from the listening sessions will be compiled into a report to the community which will be released by mid-May and the report will be used to help guide a steering committee of residents, business owners and property owners in their work to revitalize Broadway. Of the 65 who signed up for the listening sessions almost 50 people indicated they want to be actively involved.This effort is aligned with the principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. CPTED is a multi-disciplinary approach to crime prevention that uses urban and architectural design and the management of built and natural environments. Strategies aim to reduce the number of crime victims, deter people from committing criminal acts, and build a sense of community among inhabitants so they can have increased awareness of what’s happening in their neighborhoods, reduce crime, and minimize fear of crime. The CPTED principles have shown that areas where there is an overconcentration of alcohol establishments have also been proven to lead to an increase in crime and create an environment that is less desirable for residents and visitors.
As the community continues on the journey of transforming Broadway, the more involvement by stakeholders, the better. IPS is committed to facilitating this process by collecting input and translating collective aspirations into tangible plans. The community is reimagining Broadway as a welcoming, vibrant, and dynamic space while making it a true reflection of Lemon Grove's unique character. In the months ahead, anticipate further opportunities for engagement and action. Whether attending meetings, volunteering, or supporting local businesses, every individual can contribute to the revitalization of Broadway.
To stay informed and engaged, please email me at dshorey@publicstrategies.org or keep an eye out for updates and announcements on IPS and Lemon Grove social media platforms. The community has the opportunity to seize this moment to shape the future of Broadway, creating a space that embodies Lemon Grove's values and aspirations, while making Lemon Grove's Broadway the best it can be, a source of pride and unity, one step at a time.
IPS works alongside communities to build power, challenge systems of inequity, protect health, and improve quality of life. IPS has a vision for safe, secure, vibrant and healthy communities where everyone can thrive. To learn more about IPS East County, follow us on our social media platforms: IPS East County Facebook, IPS East County X, and East County Youth Coalition Instagram. Our website is at IPSEast.org.