SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - The Gaslamp Quarter Association has plans to turn a section of Fifth Avenue into a pedestrian friendly promenade.
The section affected would be from Broadway down to L Street, where the Convention Center is located. The change could help during big events like the week of Comic-Con and holidays like Halloween.
“It’s kinda mayhem,” says Michael Carbone, director of the Chuck Jones Gallery. “As far as trying to get from one block to the other, it could take you 15 minutes.”
Carbone says while he loves the crowds during Comic Con, the rent is so high downtown, his gallery is moving to Little Italy.
Some suggestions under consideration, according to the GQA: putting in street furniture, plants, local art sculptures or murals and entertainment venues.
“Well, the safety factor is you can just stroll, you don't need to look out for cars, and we don't allow bicycles either,” said Sue Meek, a tourist from Scotland who says similar areas function well back home.
The Gaslamp Promenade project could allow certain hours for vehicle traffic, such as 3 a.m. - 11 a.m.
The projected cost is currently $40 million. The association says they have a plan to use grant money and fundraise to make the project happen.
“I think this is something that will take us to the next step and for many years in the future to help drive tourism, drive economic impact to businesses and the city. I think this is a future vision that everyone can be excited about,” said Michael Trimble of the Gaslamp Quarter Association.
You can take a look at what the Promenade could look like and ask questions online.
