Mixed-use Projects To Reshape Downtown Riverside, CA

A handful of plans currently in the works will reshape downtown Riverside and, for the first time in a long time, include serious mixed-use development with an emphasis toward residential. The projects, which include a balanced mix of condos, townhomes, lofts, commercial and arts uses are expected to begin taking shape in 2006. Each will greatly add to the vibrancy of Riverside's historic core -- one of the few genuinely historic downtowns in Southern California.

"The city is using just $10 million in Redevelopment Agency money to spur an estimated $300 million in projects, said Councilman Dom Betro, whose ward includes downtown.

"I would say that is extraordinary leveraging," he said.