A new nonprofit dedicated to revitalising downtown Oakland is due to formally launch on Thursday, bringing together business leaders, property owners, philanthropists and city officials to support investment and economic activity in the area.
The Oakland Downtown Development Corporation will be led by chief executive Puja Abid, who has previewed the organisation’s plans to bring fresh momentum to the city centre.
The corporation says its work will focus on strategic placemaking, economic development and advocacy, with private investment and civic leadership working alongside the City of Oakland.
Its official launch is scheduled to take place at Cloud Park on Telegraph Avenue, with Oakland mayor Barbara Lee, board chair Isaac Abid and James Reinhart, chief executive of online retailer ThredUP, among those expected to attend.
The initiative comes as downtown Oakland seeks to attract more businesses, residents and visitors while addressing concerns over vacant premises, reduced daytime footfall and public safety.
The Oakland Downtown Development Corporation said it would work with major employers, property owners and philanthropic partners to identify priorities and turn them into practical projects aimed at making the district more active and economically resilient.
