The Evolution of Beloved Downtown Eatery, Cast Iron Trading Co.

Posted on August 24, 2025August 24, 2025 by Courtney Wood

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By: Zachary Hulsey

Located in the heart of Downtown Stockton, Cast Iron Trading Co – 114 N. San Joaquin Street, Stockton, CA -. is a deeply community-rooted food businesses serving some of the best local eats! For over 9 years, Cast Iron Trading Co. has been grounded in our community.

Beginnings

Originally opened by Eric Lee, Cast Iron has become a go-to spot in our community where Stocktonians can grab unique and delicious options for food and drinks like no other. The spot has unique artisan food and an industrial vibe. But it’s more than just a place to grab a bite, it’s a place that also hosts intimate live music nights. On certain Thursdays and Saturdays, Cast Iron Trading Co. has artists perform live music inside their space or in the alley next door. Having local artists perform live has helped make Cast Iron a gathering space that highlights the music scene in our city.

Located just off of Weber Avenue in downtown, it has served as a central hub for downtown workers, residents, and everyday Stocktonians looking to experience something special. At a time when downtown was quiet and underutilized, Cast Iron came onto the scene and made a niche for itself by bringing something different to the downtown community. It offered food and beverage options never seen before – including multiple tantalizing vegan options; locally sourced menu items; and a space that didn’t feel like a typical café or bar. From their Thursday-only Cali burrito to their BBQ chicken flatbread, each food option has its own unique taste crafted by amazing chefs. Whether it was hosting poetry readings, live jazz, or pop-up events, Cast Iron found a way to stay deeply rooted in our community while maintaining a level of quality that earned it praise beyond just the 209.

Evolution

David Cicileo took on the ownership of Cast Iron a few years ago, and this year, Cast Iron Trading Company faces another evolution as the business has recently been acquired by a new set of owners!

For the past few months, new owners, Shane Tracewell and Daniel and Bri Cortes, have been maintaining the 9-year-old business. I went in person to meet with one of the owners, Shane Tracewell, and I asked him what he looks forward to most in the future of the company. Shane shared, “We’re hoping to inject some life into downtown.” As far as the future of Cast Iron’s ties to the community, Shane said, “It would be nice to utilize our spot to highlight local talent, community, and events to improve downtown while also supplying all local goods.”

If you’ve been to 114 N. San Joaquin Street in the last month, you may have noticed that the restaurant has undergone a deep clean; it is sparkling a ready for its new chapter. You may also have seen that there are new happy hours – 3p–6p, Wed, Thurs, Fri – and that their pub menu is now offered all day long!

As Cast Iron Trading Co. enters a new chapter of ownership, the change is more than just a shift in management, it’s a moment that could redefine what the space stands for. In many ways, Cast Iron is symbolic of Stockton itself. It’s urban, beautiful, underrated, and full of promise. The transition in ownership is the start of a new era.

Reasons to Visit

Cast Iron Trading Co. is a vibrant downtown business, and it’ll continue to revitalize our downtown community through their role in our city’s food and drink scene. Whether it’s their smash burger or their caprese salad, you really can’t go wrong with anything on their menu; it’s all delicious. Whether it’s a date night, meeting, or even just to hang out, it’s a great spot to reinvest your money back into the local economy – a space for Stockton, by Stockton.

The only true way to experience the industrial vibe of Cast Iron Trading Co. is by going there! Follow their accounts to find out when they will next be hosting live music! Tell them the Downtown Stockton Alliance sent you!

Information

114 N. San Joaquin Street, Stockton, CA, 95205
Open Monday – Saturday
- Monday & Tuesday: 11 AM – 2 PM
- Wednesday & Thursday: 11 AM – 8 PM
- Friday: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday: 4 – 9 PM
Website: https://www.castirontrading.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/CastIronTradingCo
IG: https://www.instagram.com/cast_iron_trading_co/

My amazing 3-month Downtown Stockton Internship experience

Posted on August 23, 2025August 23, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By: Catalina F.G.

This week, we have a farewell blog from Catalina Franco-Gomez, the DSA’s recent Stocktonian intern:

Hey everyone!

I am Catalina Franco-Gomez aka Mz Bling✨and I’m a proud Stocktonian. I am a first-generation university student at the University of the Pacific. I am studying in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and Media. I work for University of the Pacific Athletics as a marketer and street team member. I also volunteered for the live TEDXUOP event that took place in Spring of 2025. My role was marketer, social media content handler, and receptionist. And of course, I worked for Downtown Stockton Alliance as a marketing intern for Summer 2025 and won’t forget this experience! Let me tell you more!

What are my roles?

During my amazing experience, I had many roles and duties. All are fun and exciting, I promise. As a photographer, I got to go around Downtown and take pictures, of nature, people, sites, and events. As well as businesses helping them reach their audiences. I was also the merch model. As a drone driver, even though I was just a beginner, I got the hang of controlling one, and got to take shots and video above downtown. I attended events as a DSA representative with my other wonderful intern partners and sell merch while giving out our giveaways! For the social media aspect, I got to repost and create new ones for events and highlighting businesses in our area. I even got to be a journalist for writing blogs and information about events and businesses. I also got to create videos about attending events and to make everyone aware what was happening in Downtown. They are called Intern Adventures and can be found on our IG, FB, and YouTube!

Let’s not forget

I want to deeply thank the Downtown Stockton Alliance for this wonderful, exciting opportunity that I got to experience, in just 3 months! Everyone in the DSA was very professional, polite, and welcoming. A real business and supporting the city, feeling. Because of this opportunity I got to experience all the great things that I did! I learned things that I never tried before and faced some challenging ones.

Thank you and SHOUT OUT to DOWNTOWN STOCKTON ALLIANCE ! One of these days I will drop by to see what’s happening✌️

The DSA wishes Catalina all the best on her next adventure. She has been a wonderful help to our organization over the last 3 months. Thanks for everything, Catalina! Cheers and hope to see you again!

You can see some of Catalina’s Intern Adventures on the DSA Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube pages!

If you are interested in an internship with the DSA, contact [email protected].

Two New Murals Bring Vibrant Life to Downtown Stockton

Posted on August 18, 2025August 18, 2025 by Courtney Wood

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BY: Olivia Lee

Art has the power to transform spaces, and Downtown Stockton’s new murals are creating a more dynamic and welcoming atmosphere that reflects our community’s rich cultural diversity. These colorful additions are contributing to a growing sense of pride and identity throughout the city center.

“Folklore” Celebrates Mexican Heritage

At the Mexican Heritage Center, artist Hector Covarrubias (COVA) has created “Folklore,” a stunning mural that brings beauty, calm, and vibrant color to the neighborhood. The piece serves as a visual celebration of Mexican traditions and heritage, offering viewers a peaceful feeling while honoring cultural richness.

COVA takes great pride in enhancing spaces with his art, and working at the Mexican Heritage Center holds particular significance for him. This collaborative project was made possible through the support of Gracie Madrid, the Director of the center and gallery, who helped bring this beautiful addition to life.

“Beautifully Broken” Showcases Stockton’s Strength

At Ed Coy Garage, local artist Kone Lathipanya (Koniack) has created “Beautifully Broken,” a powerful piece representing diversity, unity, strength, and perseverance—qualities he believes represent both Stockton and its citizens. This Stockton-raised artist crafted a work that speaks directly to our city’s character.

The mural is part of the Stockton City Public Mural Program, organized by the City of Stockton and Stockton Arts Commission. This initiative demonstrates the city’s commitment to supporting local artists while creating meaningful connections between art and community.

Transforming Downtown Through Art

These murals represent more than artistic expression—they’re symbols of a community that values culture, creativity, and collaboration. From COVA’s celebration of Mexican heritage to Koniack’s tribute to Stockton’s resilient spirit, these works are helping define downtown as a place where diverse voices are celebrated, creating an outdoor gallery that makes our city center more colorful and inspiring for everyone.

Mural Locations:

Folklore: 111 S. Sutter Street, Stockton, CA
Beautifully Broken: 130 N. Hunter Street, Stockton, CA

Golden Rose Barbershop has all your barber needs✂️

Posted on August 18, 2025August 18, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By: Catalina F.G.

Cut, Snip, Raze

The Golden Rose Barbershop Co was established in 1917. They have two locations, here, in Downtown Stockton and in midtown on Miracle Mile. They are the oldest barbershop in Stockton, CA, where new trends meet vintage history. When you walk inside, it has an antique feeling to it. They have animal decor, abstract paintings, and exotic plants. The staff also has a welcoming vibe and are ready to be your new barber! They offer haircuts and shaves. Let’s not forget they specialize in men’s luxury grooming.

Congratulations

This year, Golden Rose Barbershop has won 1st place in Downtown Stockton’s 4th of July business decoration contest. They had a very large USA flag hung up in their shop. They won numerous prizes for being first place including the blog you’re reading now!

Over the years, Golden Rose Barbershop has taken 1st place multiple times in our holiday decoration competitions! The photos above illustrate a few of their beautiful decor displays.

Services

Golden Rose offers the following services:

Luxury Beard Trim – $40
Luxury Haircut – $45
Luxury Shave – $65
Luxury Haircut/Beard Trim – $75
Luxury Shave/Haircut – $100

If you want to feel like a dapper gent from yesteryear, book an appointment at Golden Rose to experience their stylish and luxurious services.

Did you know?

Golden Rose Barbershop accepts walk-ins and credit cards, cash, and apple pay. They are wheelchair accessible, street parking and validated parking available, bike parking available, customer restrooms, and provides free Wi-Fi. They also have online booking available now! Saturdays are appointments only.

Book Online Here: The Golden Rose Barbershop Co

Information

Location: 15 S San Joaquin St, Stockton, Ca 95202
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:30AM – 6:00PM
Instagram: @thegoldenrosebarbershop
Facebook: The Golden Barbershop Co
Book Online: Book here

Cool Down This Summer: Your Guide to Downtown Stockton’s Best Ice Cream Spots

Posted on August 18, 2025August 18, 2025 by Courtney Wood

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By: Olivia Lee

When the California sun gets intense, Downtown Stockton becomes an ice cream lover’s paradise. Our walkable downtown has six unique spots, each offering distinct flavors and experiences. Whether you’re craving Mexican style, classic American scoops, or budget-friendly treats, these local gems have perfected the art of cooling you down. Here’s your insider guide to the frozen treasures waiting just steps away from each other in our vibrant downtown.

Sweet Spots Worth Every Scoop

Mango Crazy

222 N El Dorado St, Stockton, CA

Mango Crazy brings authentic Mexican flair to the ice cream scene. Their specialty Latin flavors reflect their Mexican food roots.

I tried the Horchata – strong cinnamon notes with balanced sweetness that never felt overwhelming.

At $4.49 per scoop, they’re open daily 11 AM to 9 PM, perfect for afternoon or evening treats.

Peke’s Ice Cream Paleteria & Neveria

Waterfront Warehouse | 445 W Weber Ave, Suite 142, Stockton, CA

Peke’s boasts the most extensive flavor selection downtown.

My Tres Leche choice delivered a smooth texture and gentle sweetness.

$4.49 per scoop, open 10 AM to 8:30 PM daily.

Check their full menu in person!

Stockton Mini Mart

447 E Weber Ave, Stockton, CA

Stockton Mini Mart wins for budget-conscious ice cream lovers at just $1.50 per scoop.

Classic options include vanilla, bubble gum, pistachio, cookies and cream, chocolate, chocolate chip, and pineapple coconut.

Their vanilla surprised me with bubble gum undertones – fun and nostalgic.

Hours: Monday-Friday 7 AM to 7 PM, Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM.

Vanilla Ice Cream from Stockton Mini Mart

Rocky Road Ice Cream from Alfalfa’s Pizza

Alfalfa’s Pizza and Deli

335 E Weber Ave, Stockton, CA

Alfalfa’s proves pizza places can excel at frozen treats, too.

Their Rocky Road ($3.55) impresses with a rich chocolate base, generous chunks, and marshmallows that create the perfect chewy texture.

They also offer chocolate, cookies and cream, vanilla, and strawberry flavors.

Open Monday-Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Saturday 11 AM to 5 PM

Curbside Cravings

306 E. Main St., Courthouse Plaza, Stockton, CA

Curbside Cravings offers a great value at $2.29 per scoop.

The Pistachio stood out – nutty richness with actual nuts and dried fruit pieces adding tangy brightness.

Other options include chocolate, coconut, strawberry, and rainbow sherbet.

Pistachio Ice Cream from Curbside Cravings

Butter Pecan Ice Cream from Orlando’s Market

Orlando’s Downtown Market

155 N Hunter St, Stockton, CA

Orlando’s offers premium ice cream at $3.00 per scoop.

Their Butter Pecan delights with generous pecan pieces and a rich, luxurious flavor that satisfies without being heavy.

Other options include Rocky Road, strawberry, vanilla, mint chocolate chip, rainbow, and chocolate chip.

Open Monday–Friday 8 AM to 6 PM, Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM

Your Sweet Downtown Adventure Awaits

Six ice cream destinations, six different experiences – all within walking distance of each other. Create your own ice cream tour starting with Stockton Mini Mart’s budget scoops, then work your way up to Orlando’s premium flavors. Mix traditional American classics with Mango Crazy’s Mexican specialties, or challenge yourself to try Peke’s most unusual flavor. Downtown Stockton’s ice cream scene proves that sometimes the best way to explore a neighborhood is one delicious scoop at a time.

Information

Mango Crazy
- 222 N. El Dorado
- IG: @mangocrazystockton
Peke’s Ice Cream Paleteria & Neveria
- 445 W. Weber Ave., #142
- IG: @pekesicecream
Stockton Mini Mart
- 447 E. Weber Ave.
Alfalfa’s Pizza & Deli
- 335 E. Weber Ave.
- FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572853670860
Curbside Cravings
- 306 E. Main St.
- IG: @curbsidecravings209
Orlando’s Downtown Market
- 155 N. Hunter St.
- IG: @orlandos.downtown.deli

My 4-Month Journey: Reflecting on an Unforgettable Internship Experience

Posted on August 7, 2025August 7, 2025 by Intern DSA

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by Olivia Lee

This week, we have a farewell blog from Olivia Lee, the DSA’s recent Korea WEST exchange program intern:

Hi everyone!

My name is Olivia Lee, and I’m originally from South Korea where I studied event planning and marketing. During my studies, I became fascinated with the United States – home to the world’s largest entertainment market – and dreamed of experiencing this industry firsthand. That curiosity led me to discover the WEST program, which opened an amazing opportunity to work as a marketing intern with the Downtown Stockton Alliance. What started as a big decision turned into one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, and I wanted to share some reflections on these past four months.

Learning, Growing, and Finding My Place in Stockton

Before arriving in Stockton, I’ll be honest – I was nervous. Moving alone to an unfamiliar place felt overwhelming and having focused primarily on events and entertainment in my studies, I wasn’t entirely sure how I’d contribute to DSA’s work. Those initial worries quickly disappeared once I started working with the team. From day one, everyone made me feel genuinely supported and included. The warmth and kindness of my colleagues created such a comfortable environment that I actually looked forward to coming to work each day.

The role challenged me in the best possible ways. I got to try things I’d never done before – creating Instagram reels, operating drones for video content, working at community events through tabling, and so much more. Sure, there was definitely a learning curve at first, and some tasks felt intimidating. But as I gained confidence, I found myself genuinely enjoying these new challenges. Each project taught me something different, whether it was technical skills, creative problem-solving, or simply how to communicate more effectively with diverse audiences.

Gratitude for an Amazing Journey

These four months in Stockton have given me experiences and connections I never could have imagined when I first arrived. I’ve met incredible people who have become more than just colleagues – they’ve been so supportive and helped me learn so much about working in this field. Through this internship, I’ve discovered new strengths and possibilities within myself. I’ve learned that stepping outside your comfort zone, even when it’s scary, can lead to the most rewarding experiences. The confidence I’ve gained here, the skills I’ve developed, and the memories I’ve made will stay with me forever.

To everyone at DSA and in the Stockton community who welcomed me with open arms – thank you from the bottom of my heart. You’ve made this journey unforgettable, and I hope our paths cross again someday. Until then, I’ll carry all the lessons you’ve taught me as I continue my career back home. Thank you for everything! 감사합니다!

The DSA wishes Olivia all the best on her next adventure. She has been a wonderful help to our organization over the last 4 months. Thanks for everything, Olivia! Cheers and hope to see you again!

You can see some of Olivia’s Intern Adventures on the DSA Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube pages!

To learn more about the Korea WEST exchange program, click here: https://www.icceusa.com/programs-in-the-usa/korea-west/.

If you are interested in an internship with the DSA, contact [email protected].

The best food cravings spot in Downtown Stockton: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

Posted on August 7, 2025August 8, 2025 by Intern DSA

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BY ANDY NGUYEN

Lunchtime Cravings, Community Impact

The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks is serving the community in more ways than ever before! Located inside Courthouse Plaza in Downtown Stockton, it offers a variety of options to satisfy your cravings, such as Carne Asada tacos, burritos, pizza, hamburgers, and their special Main Street House Fries.

In addition to satiating your hunger, they are dedicated to supporting youth. Launched as a social enterprise, it was founded by Main Street Youth Family and Services, whose goal is to empower youth through various outlets. Young staff members are involved in day-to-day operations, including the shop’s display, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in a real-world environment.

Where Talent and Passion Come Together

This year, The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks placed 2nd in Downtown Stockton’s 4th of July Decoration Contest. Blending in non-traditional decor items with an array of holiday-themed colors, it delivered a unique, enticing view that celebrated the spirit of the holiday. This also reflected the youth staff’s creative contributions, which gives the store a personal touch that customers notice and admire.

How One Purchase Goes a Long Way

By making a purchase of at least $5 dollars from a Courthouse Plaza business, you’re admitted free entry to the Underground Arcade. Here you can play an abundance of classic arcade games from pinball machines, street fighter games, air hockey, free-throw basketball, and more! A quick bite to eat before indulging the arcade is the perfect way to spend your day while supporting the community in Downtown Stockton.

The Newest Way to Enjoy The Kitchen

Recently, their business has expanded into online ordering. You can order ahead of time and skip the line; who doesn’t like that? Whether you’re an early bird needing breakfast fuel or craving a lunchtime must-have, this is a perfect spot to visit in Downtown Stockton. Support local business and order now!

Order Online Here: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

Information

Location: 306 E. Main Street, Suite 203, Stockton, CA 95202

Summer Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00AM – 2:00PM

Website: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

Instagram: @thekitchenatplazaperks

Facebook: The Kitchen at Plaza Perks

Order Online: The Kitchen @ Plaza Perks

☃️Christmas in July: Downtown Stockton

Posted on July 22, 2025July 28, 2025 by Intern DSA

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By: Catalina F.G.

Intro

❄️We all know it’s never too early to start shopping for those Christmas gifts. Downtown Stockton is ready to announce that this year we are celebrating Christmas in July. Not just for one day but three and it is FREE admission to attend!

What’s Happening

This year’s event will be taking place at the Mexican Heritage Center in Downtown Stockton California. There will be live music, delicious foods and drinks, a variety of vendors, paintings and art, unique gifts, collectable items, and so much more! This year they are featuring artwork made by Albino Perez from Guatemala.

According to Gracie Madrid, Executive Director of the Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery, this event was started because, “People thought it would be fun to celebrate Christmas in July.”

Why You Should Come

Madrid shared that most Christmas in July attendees “are very happy in seeing all the unique handmade items that you won’t be able to find in stores.”

This is a perfect event to celebrate numerous things, from summertime, to Christmas vibes, to just coming out and having fun with family, friends, and community. With their inviting and welcoming atmosphere, the Mexican Heritage Center is the right place to enjoy any celebration. There will be plenty of entertainment for the whole fam.

Madrid is excited about the event because it will contribute to “making money for our Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery, so we can keep our doors open to the community.”

Come out and support the unique vendors and your community. Make sure to start grabbing those Christmas shopping lists and stop by this event. Don’t forget to visit our stand, the Downtown Stockton Alliance; we will be there with free giveaways and merch for sale!

Do not miss out on this event, it will be going on for 3 days straight! Starts on July the 24th at 11am! Hope to see everyone there!!

Event Details

July 24, July 25, and July 26th
11am to 3pm

Location

111 S Sutter Street, Stockton CA, 95202
Mexican Heritage Center
Social Media( IG) @mexicanheritagecenter

Pacific Development Group 🛠️

Posted on July 12, 2025July 28, 2025 by Courtney Wood

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By: Zachary Hulsey

Downtown Stockton has a lot of potential – its old buildings, the waterfront, its central location, its community. It’s a place that has the potential to be full of life. But like many downtown areas, it has gone through tough times, especially with its historic and abandoned buildings. Now, thanks to investors like Joe Michael and his team at Pacific Development Group, things are starting to change.

A Heart for Stockton & Cort Tower

Joe Michael – CEO of the Pacific Development Group, Downtown Stockton Alliance Board Member, and a Stockton native – is dedicated to restoring the beauty of Downtown Stockton. When asked by the Downtown Stockton Alliance why his company chose to invest here, this is what he had to say:

“I was born and raised in Stockton, so I’ve always had a soft spot for this city — especially Downtown. With the waterfront, Marina, Ballpark, the historic buildings, and how centrally located it is with I-5 and the Crosstown Freeway right there, it’s always felt like there was so much untapped potential.

When Cort Tower became available, it felt like the perfect opportunity to not only create a new home base for our company but also to make a real impact in the heart of the city.

With the right investment and partnerships, I truly believe Downtown Stockton can become a walkable, creative, and thriving hub for housing, business, social scene, and the arts. We’ve done a lot of infill and adaptive reuse projects over the years throughout the Western United States, and Downtown Stockton felt like the kind of place where our experience could really make a difference right away.”

Cort Tower is one of Stockton’s most well-known and historic high-rise buildings. When asked about his plans for Cort Tower, Joe Michael stated:

“The Cort Tower is one of those buildings that’s impossible to miss — it’s a Stockton landmark. We’ve spent the last two years reimagining it as a modern workspace for creative professionals, small businesses, and nonprofits. We’ve upgraded the interiors, boosted the energy efficiency, and brought back some of the mid-century character that makes the building unique. We’re proud to say it’s now almost fully leased, and it’s really becoming a hub of activity again.”

The Ruhl Building

Another exciting project that the Pacific Group took over is the Ruhl Building. This one is a partnership with Main Street Youth and Family Services (formerly Parents By Choice), a nonprofit that helps foster youth and families. Pacific Development Group is helping them turn the building into a center for supportive housing and services. When asked about his plans regarding the Ruhl Building, Joe Michael stated in a quote to the Downtown Stockton Alliance:

“It’s exactly the kind of mission-driven project we love being part of — taking a building with history and purpose and giving it new life to serve the community.” Their work isn’t just about fixing up buildings; it’s about doing work that makes a real difference.

The Future

It’s clear that the Pacific Development Group has done great work for the Downtown Stockton district, but what are their plans for the future? In yet another quote, Joe Michael stated, “We’re just getting started. We’re actively looking at more buildings and sites in the downtown core—the goal is to keep building momentum. Long term, we see a future where Downtown Stockton is full of life again — with more housing, more creative spaces, public art, local businesses, restaurants, and events that bring people together. We’re in it for the long haul, and we’re excited about what’s ahead.”

It’s clear that Pacific Development Group isn’t just another development company. They care about the places they invest in, and in Stockton, that care comes from a personal place. Joe knows the city because he grew up there. He sees what it could be, and he wants to be part of making that happen.

By bringing back important buildings like the Cort Tower and supporting community-focused work at the Ruhl Building, the company is helping downtown Stockton become a much better place – more active, creative, and welcoming for people near and far. These projects show how private companies can work to create real change in our city.

Reviving a downtown takes time and effort, but with people like Joe and companies like Pacific Development Group involved, our future looks bright. They’re not just fixing buildings; they’re helping to build a better city, one project at a time.

Information

Company: Pacific Development Group
Address: 343 Main Street, Stockton, CA
Phone: 209.473.9700
Website: https://pacificdg.com/

Visionary Home Builders🏗️

Posted on July 12, 2025July 28, 2025 by Courtney Wood

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By: Zachary Hulsey

For over 35 years, the nonprofit development group Visionary Home Builders has created and advocated for healthy, vibrant, and safe communities through the development of affordable housing and educational opportunities for all in low and moderate income brackets. Based in Stockton, they have been making a huge difference on the housing scene in California. They first started in 1983 with a direct mission to provide affordable housing to families, especially farmworkers, who were struggling to find stable homes. Over the years, they’ve grown into a well-known nonprofit organization dedicated to building homes that are not just affordable but also designed with sustainability and community in mind.

Grand View Village

One of their most recent and significant projects is the Grand View Village, located at 240 E Miner Ave, Stockton, CA 95202, in downtown Stockton. This housing development project offers 75 affordable housing units for lower- to moderate-income families. But it’s more than just a place to live. This wonderful development includes eco-friendly features such as solar panels and energy-efficient appliances. There are also spaces for businesses and community activities, including a future grocery store and a Head Start program for young children. The Grand View Village is a great example of how Visionary Home Builders mix both affordable housing with beneficial services that support our community.

Founder and CEO, Carol Ornelas, stated in a quote to the Downtown Stockton Alliance, “At Visionary Home Builders, we don’t just build housing — we build hope, opportunity, and stronger communities. Our mission is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home.”

Liberty Square & More

Another huge project is Liberty Square, located at 807 N. San Joaquin Street. This development turned an old commercial building into 74 affordable rental units. This project was designed with veterans in mind, offering a mix of studio apartments and one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes. Liberty Square also has a vibrant community center with a computer lab and daycare facilities. Residents at the Liberty Square also benefit from their close proximity to public transportation and other essential services to access the resources they need.

In addition to these projects, Visionary Home Builders is also working on providing resources for families who want to own homes. In 2024, the organization received over $1.1 million through the Premio HOME award to support their great mission. They’re helping families overcome barriers to homeownership by offering financial education and support. This is crucial in a region where high home prices and limited availability can make owning a home feel out of reach for many families.

Founder Carol Ornelas, has played a huge role in advocating for affordable housing and economic justice. In 2023, she was honored with the Alan Fisher Economic Justice Award for her work in promoting fair housing opportunities. Her leadership has definitely helped in Visionary Home Builders’ success and their ability to make a difference in the Stockton community.

La Passeggiata

In yet another project, Visionary Home Builders is also exploring new ways to build sustainable homes. Their upcoming project, La Passeggiata (which recently broke ground), plans to bring modular multi-family homes to downtown Stockton. These homes will be energy-efficient and include features like rooftop gardens and solar power. The goal is to offer more affordable housing options for seniors and families in the area while also embracing modern construction methods to tackle the housing shortage.

In Conclusion

Overall, Visionary Home Builders has made downtown Stockton a more sustainable, livable, area that families can enjoy. Their contribution to addressing the housing needs in Stockton has exceeded expectations. Their projects not only provide affordable homes but also strengthen the communities they’re built in. Through their innovative and community-centered approach, Visionary Home Builders is proving that it’s possible to create homes that are both affordable and sustainable, helping families find stability and a brighter future. From the Downtown Stockton Alliance to the team over at Visionary Home Builders, thank you for choosing Downtown Stockton as your home!

Information

Business: Visionary Home Builders
Address: 315 N San Joaquin St, Stockton, CA 95202
Phone Number: 209.466.6811
Website: https://visionaryhomebuilders.org/