Downtown Banners

Posted on January 20, 2019 by digitalgear

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By Andrew Rocha

Whether they are working hard or hanging out and having fun, people love downtown Stockton and are proud of the progress the district makes every single day. It’s easy to notice the sense of the pride the district has by walking around and seeing banners posted along the streets, letting everyone know that they are in downtown Stockton.

Many are probably already familiar with the All-American City Award banners around the Stockton Town Hall. An award that Stockton has received several times and is an award given by the National Civic League that is the oldest community recognition program in the United States. There are also the banners along El Dorado Street that highlight Stockton’s sports teams such as: the Stockton Ports, Stockton Heat, and the Stockton Kings. These serve as a reminder to everyone that this is a city with a sports legacy and culture, which is an integral part of downtown Stockton.

Creating a Downtown Brand

New Downtown Stockton Banners went up before the end of 2018 along Weber Avenue catching everyone’s attention with a light blue, dark teal, and unique logo. The banners aim to create a brand that identifies the downtown district. It is something that everyone and every business downtown can associate with themselves. In fact, the light blue, Downtown Stockton logo on the banners can be used by any local business or organization that is interested. It is a brand for anyone who loves downtown Stockton.

And the new banners are definitely a welcome addition by the community. “Since we’ve come back from holiday, I’ve had at least ten to twelve people say they’re amazing. They really pop and show pride for downtown.” said Mike Huber, the executive director of the Downtown Stockton Alliance, “I’ve had a lot of citizens tell me that they like the sports banners being up and the designs on those. They show that we’re a major sports city.”

Matt Amen, executive director of Huddle Cowork + Create, shared a similar sentiment, “The new banners along the Weber corridor bring more color and life to Downtown Stockton! Looking forward to seeing more businesses represented on these throughout the district.”

Not only is downtown Stockton a district that is making great strides in business and creativity, but it’s outward appearance is reflecting those efforts. It is a great place to live and work and the banners let anyone who visits know immediately that people take pride in downtown Stockton and want everyone to know it.

DSA Banner Program

The Downtown Stockton Alliance’s banners are just one method to liven up the area with color! But it’s not just for the DSA and the sports teams! If you are a downtown businesses and/or organization and would like your own banner displayed within the district, we’ve put together a short summary on how to apply for your own banner!

Choose how many banners you want to purchase
Choose the banner sizes
Choose the banner locations
Sign a 3-yr. contract with the DSA for the leasing of the poles and pay the annual fee
Send DSA artwork to be printed on the banners (or work with DSA to design the artwork if needed)
Approve the digital banner proof
Watch the banners go up!

For the complete, detailed list of steps to follow, visit our website at downtownstockton.org

Pioneers of Downtown Stockton

Posted on November 9, 2018 by digitalgear

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By Andrew Rocha

Downtown Stockton has been experiencing a period of resurgence. Businesses are opening and happily accepted by the community! In addition, many people are showing interest in living in downtown. It is an exciting time to be downtown!

But a lot of what is happening downtown would not be possible if not for the time and effort from several figures in the community. Not only have they shown enough interest in the district to use their resources in fostering the downtown area, but their passion for the area is sparking interest and attracting more people to visit downtown Stockton. Growth and new life in downtown would not be possible without their efforts!

Bali Ranchhod

Bali Ranchhod and the S&M Ranchhod Family Trust own several properties in downtown Stockton including, 820/840 East Main Street, 526/530 East Main Street, and 47 North Grant Street. To help support growth and life in the area, Ranchhod explained that,

“We encourage new businesses into our properties in downtown by offering low rents and assisting with establishment as possible…We have recently become involved with the Downtown Stockton Business Watch and their efforts to improve security. Just having tenants in formerly vacant properties and generating some traffic flow is helping keep downtown active and help with its new growth.”

Bali Ranchhod’s father, Shamjibhai Ranchhod, came to Stockton in the early 70’s for a better life than what was available in their home of Zambia. Though it was a struggle, Shamjibhai Ranchhod worked hard for his family and the downtown community. Bali Ranchhod shared,

“He would take over any distressed property and try to make it work. He would get sellers to carry a note with a small amount down and worked hard to keep up with payments, manage tenants and do the necessary maintenance (mostly himself and getting help from the cheapest contractors available). He was a good negotiator and a lot of folk did jobs for him simply because of his persistence and character.”

Cort Companies

Cort Companies is a full-service commercial real estate and development company. They renovate and restore buildings that are integral to the history of downtown Stockton. Cort Companies has been serving the community for 40 years. In that time, around two million square feet of space have been restored. Dan Cort, the president and CEO of Cort Companies expressed that he believes more people will be drawn to the district because of Cort Companies’ hard work and the businesses that have chosen to work with them. It is a community effort that is helping downtown Stockton grow.

Mahala Burns, the senior broker of Cort Companies, mentioned some of the projects that Cort Companies is working on. One of their main goals is to bring new residents to the downtown area. These projects to draw new residents include Tretheway Live+Work Lofts at the historic Tretheway building, a space for those who want an area where they can comfortably live AND practice their business. According to Mahala Burns, more and more people are showing interest in downtown Stockton and overtime life will be thriving like it never has before.

Melvin Corren

A 94-year old Stockton native, Melvin Corren, leads a class titled “Revitalization of Downtown Stockton” in the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of the Pacific. In this class, Melvin Corren and various people from the city government and local organizations suggest ways in which downtown Stockton can return to its former glory.

“My drive for doing all of this has been number one, because I remember when downtown Stockton was such a vibrant place and I would like to see it return to that state.” said Corren.

In 1901, Melvin Corren’s grandfather opened a furniture store on San Joaquin Street in Downtown Stockton. He remembers those old and wonderful times downtown. He also shared some ideas that would benefit the area while paying respect to the area’s rich history. One idea is to compliment the iconic Bob Hope Theater with a Bob Hope Plaza or museum to celebrate the life and work of Bob Hope, perhaps including a film of Alex Spanos dancing with Bob Hope. Such a project would not only give people an incentive to visit and live in downtown Stockton, but also a reason to care and cherish the area.

Downtown Stockton is an area that is on the rise. Members of the community can help support the new life and growth in the area by simply supporting the businesses that are located there and spend time enjoying the atmosphere of downtown’s city life.

Written by Andrew James Rocha

Living Downtown

Posted on November 5, 2018February 5, 2024 by digitalgear

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By Andrew Rocha

Downtown Stockton is not just a great place to hang out with friends and grab a bite to eat, but it also has numerous living options. Current and future housing projects welcome new residents with a variety of spaces that will fulfill the needs of a diverse population.

University Lofts

There are so many places to choose from when moving to Downtown Stockton, including the University Lofts that sit along the waterfront. It is a seven-story full-scale housing, resort style, residential building, and it offers 51 suite-style lofts and 42 condo-style lofts. Not that far from the lofts, there is Stockton Arena, Banner Island Ballpark, and Weber Point Events Center. All of which are within walking distance of the building!

Cal Weber 40

The Cal Weber 40 Apartments are Downtown Stockton’s first affordable housing project. They are located at the intersection of California Street and Weber Avenue. The apartments include a total of 40 units. 28 are apartments with two bedrooms and one bathroom, and the remaining 12 apartments are with three bedrooms and two baths. Cal Weber 40 also provides residents with designated parking and common areas with computer labs.

Mansion House

Mansion House is an apartment complex located along Weber Avenue and just a short walk away from many restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Amenities such as assigned parking, high-speed internet access, and washers and dryers, are available to residents. The apartment is three-stories and includes 26 units that overlook the County Superior Court and the Historic Hotel Stockton.

Hotel Stockton

The Hotel Stockton is a low-income housing community located in the center of downtown near the waterfront; the building has four-stories and includes 156 units. Residents have all of downtown within walking distance as well as amenities like a fitness center and a community room.

Silvercrest Residences

There is also the Silvercrest Residences located on North Stanislaus Street. Silvercrest is a senior living community that is made up of 83 units. Affordable apartments are available for individuals who can live independently, though income restrictions may apply.

Tretheway Live+Work Lofts

There are also several projects currently underway to encourage more individuals to make Downtown Stockton their home. The Tretheway Live+Work Lofts is for those who not only want a space to operate their business, but also to live and relax. This is especially attractive to artists and entrepreneurs. The Tretheway Building is a historical landmark on Weber Avenue across from the County Superior Court. Mirroring most downtown living locations, it is not too far from entertainment and food. The Tretheway Live+Work Lofts are estimated to be ready in March 2019. However, five of the twelve Live+Work lofts are already reserved, so there is plenty of interest in this location.

CalMain Lofts

Currently under construction are the CalMain Loft apartments. The complex is right across from Trail Coffee Roasters on Main Street. The CalMain Lofts are made up of one bedroom, two bedroom, and studio apartments with new kitchens and bathrooms, and high-end finishes.

This is the best time to live in downtown Stockton – not only to have access to comfortable housing and a gratifying atmosphere – but also to witness and be a part of a community that is growing and becoming more recognized for its positive potential.