June 2012 Downtown Dimension Highlights

Here are my belated notes from the June edition of Downtown Dimension:

• New incentives for high-rise construction have been launched [and they appear to be working], specifically lower construction taxes, commercial-residential building taxes, park fees, streamlined permits, and several other perks which would apply to the first 1,000 units that break ground before 2013.
• SJDA launched a targeted marketing campaign for www.liveandlocalsj.com, which highlights live music venues and performers. More than 20 Downtown locations present music on a regular schedule and there are 40 that host music seasonally. 
• St. James Park will host the Blues Fest on July 14 from noon to 8pm.
• Downtown Doors is expanding to 65 locations Downtown, brightening up the streets with art from local high school students.
• Blush Raw Bar & Lounge is open in the San Pedro Square Market, serving sushi and "slush" drinks.
• The Sliding Door has opened at 355 S. First, selling moving doors, walls, and room dividers in various finishes and glasses.
• Zipcar has added 12 cars across 6 Downtown locations (!)
• KQED has a new home at 50 W. San Fernando.
• Parque de los Pobladores in SoFA is being expanded thanks to a $500,000 grant from ArtPlace to turn the park into an outdoor living room for the arts.

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