A Trip to Third Avenue - A family outing worthy of a day?

One of the things my family likes to do on occasion is go downtown to the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop on 5th Avenue.  We usually park at Horton Plaza and walk a few blocks to the shop.  On other occasions, we may walk further to visit the Children’s Museum or even further to have a cupcake at Heavenly Cupcake.  We can easily spend a good 5-6 hours on these outings.

We also make special outings to Chula Vista’s downtown area on Third Avenue at times.  Unfortunately, these outings rarely last more than an hour or two.  Usually they last enough to dine at Talavera Azul and then walk over for dessert at Maya Chiang.

Well, there are some changes coming to Third Ave that will hopefully make it more likely that my family, and yours, will be able to spend 5-6 hours dining, shopping, and experiencing our very own downtown lifestyle in Chula Vista.

Now don’t go panicking ... I’m not talking skyscrapers that block our sun ... I’m talking about a downtown that invites life to its streets.  One that is full of families, young and old, opportunities for community gatherings, vibrant businesses that become experiences and physical spaces that warrant immersion as opposed to a drive-by.

The City and the Third Avenue Village Association will be hosting community forums to finalize the planning of a new Streetscape  Master Plan.  

What’s a Streetscape? Technically it is the visual elements of a street such as sidewalks, trees, etc.  What it means for most is how inviting the street is to them. 

I’ve heard great ideas of wider sidewalks with areas to gather, sidewalk cafes, etc.  I’ve also heard concerns expressed about how the narrowing of the lanes from four to two will impact businesses. Will people be willing to park further and walk to shops and restaurants? What if it is too much of a good thing and the increase of family outings begin to negatively impact the surrounding communities?

Lots of very good questions remain and the City needs to hear from you.  Come out to one of the workshops:

Workshop Flyer (Dates: March 7, 9 and 11)

No time, you say? 

Well that’s okay too. You can provide input online on the project’s website!  And check the site often, as they will be posting updates each step of the way.

Third Avenue Streetscape Master Plan Website 

Feel free to share your thoughts below too. What do you think?