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By Derek Dressler
If there is one constant in politics, it’s disagreement. Such division is essential in representative government as it serves to temper over-governance and advance only the best policies on behalf of people.
Certainly, anyone who has picked up a Pleasanton Weekly since 2020 or given city politics a glance knows that our community is no stranger to political divisions. So, when the City Council comes together and unanimously agrees that economic vitality is a priority to address, there is good cause to encourage and hone this focus.
Almost two years ago, I asserted that Pleasanton is slowly losing its competitive edge in the Tri-Valley … an assessment I retain is more true now than ever. Seeing declines in home values, school rankings and downtown energy when compared to our peers up and down 680, 580 and 24 is both disheartening and problematic.
As of late, I have been making it a point to tour, meet, shop and eat at downtowns across the East Bay. From Livermore, Lafayette and Danville to Walnut Creek, Orinda and even Concord, it is evident that our neighbors are being intentional, prioritizing welcoming and aesthetic environments through business friendly policies.
Sadly, the more time you spend downtown, the more evident it becomes that something is amiss in Ptown. While other towns and cities are full of vibrancy, welcomeness and most importantly people, Pleasanton feels and looks empty.
To that end, after spending two mornings walking up and down Main Street asking business owners, restaurant goers and shoppers alike what could improve Pleasanton’s core area, the answers were clear: we need to do more to draw people in and attract welcoming downtown-oriented businesses.
We can’t just be a weekend city, a Fair-time city, or a place where only the locals go. Let us not rest on the laurels of our name and invest in retaining the pride we all feel while strolling along our historic street.
Don’t confuse this, however, for a sob story. We sit at the precipice of opportunity on what the next chapter for Pleasanton will write.
We live in one of the most compelling and attractive places in the Bay and rise to master this moment of stagnation and turn it into tomorrow’s opportunity. The opportunity to invest, to innovate, and to think anew about reinvigorating the heartbeat of our charming town.
Let us rekindle the charm of this 3/4 of a mile stretch of heaven, making it a place the masses seek out on their own accord. Let us focus on increasing signage at all high-traffic points along 580/680/Stanley to draw people in. Let us reinvigorate the aesthetic charm by updating facades and working with businesses to make sure every storefront is putting its best foot forward.
Let us draw on projects that create centers of congregation and gathering places to welcome people of all ages into the serenity we seek, and let us lead with a business-friendly attitude that makes businesses from across the Bay desire to call Main Street their new home.
Generations ahead will look at this time period as a defining moment in our city’s history. Amid local economic shortfall and global uncertainty, it was well-put at a recent council meeting that we need to increase revenue generation sources.
A downtown of tomorrow will foster a Pleasanton of tomorrow. One with financial stability, economic vitality, and a sought after charm, desired and renowned throughout the Bay Area.
I implore the City Council and local leaders to not let our exceptional downtown fade away. Say no to more for-lease businesses, to more empty tables, and to yesterday’s charm and relevance.
Let us lead the way as we always have and retain our city’s legendary ethos.
Editor’s note: Derek Dressler is a political scientist and student at the University of Pittsburgh. As a lifelong Pleasanton resident, Derek has served his community in various capacities including student Board of Trustees member, Foothill High School ASB president and assistant scoutmaster in Pleasanton’s BSA Troop 941.
Since the adoption of the current Downtown Specific Plan, the only thing that has been added to Downtown has been four-story housing. Something needs to be done to make the commercial aspects of Downtown more attractive and inviting.
Couldn’t agree more