Tracy Press

I see that they have re-done the grand theater...how cool is that..are they going to be showing movies? or what is the plan for this place

Check out:
www.atthegrand.org

did you know that our City Council spent over $15million on that project. That isn't cool

It may sound like a lot and I'm sure there are more pressing needs, but art, music, and dance can be healing to the soul of a city. In these trying times, it's important to have a place to nurture and showcase what humans can creatively do.

$15 million; $19 million or whatever it may be, it is all cool. The Grand will be the center of a revitalized and better downtown. It will take several years, some more downtown sprucing and the development of the Bow Tie, but The Grand will be our gem and our downtown centerpiece for years to come while being a wonderful place for art-loving folk of all ilks and ages to enjoy. We are already beginning to see thngs turn with the new photo studio just down the street and the Performing Arts Academy moving to 10th St. There are savvy and risk taking business people looking to create a better, more arts-friendly downtown--and I hope the City will assist. Many a Tracyite will benefit from the Grand over time. Its many and varied venues will attract a multitude of people from within and more importantly outside Tracy. This is what will attract more business and allow downtown to grow and flourish. Although not totally comparable, I think about downtown San Jose's revival and flourishing after the Arena was built. I am sure the same can be said about local theatres and other downtown hubs in cities simialr to Tracy. Merced has both a downtown theatre and well as movie theatre. They have developed some neat multi-use projects that afford retail on the bottom and residential above. This creates both a business-friendly environment as well as a ready market--the residents need a place to shop and enjoy time. They are the anchors for the mom and pop stores as well as the public gathering places. Check out Santana Row in San Jose some time. Merced is vibrant and busy on weekend nights. There are coffee houses, eateries and music venues top enjoy drink and good times. I believe in time we shall see the same evolution come to downtown Tracy. Built it, Ray, and indeed they will come. I suggest we see how the last 3.5 months of the year go before we pass final judgements--good or bad : ) I also suggest the Tracy citizenry work with City government and participate in public workshops to make Tracy and specifically downtown Tracy something to be proud of.

Well, just go and enjoy it. do not be negative in something you do not understand thanks