A second wind for the Historic District A second wind for the Historic District A second wind for the Historic District A second wind for the Historic District

Next month's opening of the striking Historic District parking structure represents the beginning of an exciting revitalization program for Sutter Street and the surrounding area. This is great news for all who take pleasure in this charming, historic gem in the heart of our community.The new structure looks nothing like a typical multi-level parking garage. The four-story brick-faÃ§ade building features a 19th-century architectural design that complements the historic buildings on Sutter Street. It includes a large clock tower, two-story window openings, ironwork and a parapet that camouflages the rooftop parking. Sutter Street visitors will enjoy three hours of free parking in the new structure, just enough time to explore the area's interesting shops, galleries and restaurants. The structure has 315 parking spaces on three indoor levels, as well as rooftop parking, a street level bicycle station and about 4,000 square feet for retail space. Located on the site of the original Sacramento Valley Railroad depot grounds, the parking structure is bounded by Sutter, Reading, Leidesdorff and Wool streets. In Folsom's early days, this was the site of the first passenger rail service west of the Mississippi, linking Sacramento with the town of Folsom, the terminus point for the Pony Express.After the parking structure opens on March 20, work will begin on the Historic Folsom Station. This new venture, formerly called the Railroad Block, will feature four buildings with residential lofts, retail and office uses and restaurants. A public plaza on the property will include a fountain, an events area for fairs and farmer's markets and a small outdoor amphitheater for music, dance and theater. A community-driven revitalization program for Sutter Street is also underway. The goal is to preserve the unique character and historical nature of the area while making needed changes. We are working closely with the Heritage Preservation League and the Folsom Cultural Resources Conservancy to ensure historical integrity of the revitalization effort and the Sutter Street Streetscape Project.The Streetscape Project will create better access for people with disabilities and improve the aging water and sewer infrastructure, while creating a more effective and attractive center for commerce. Initial project plans include removing the center median and shed roofs and widening sidewalks. Historic District Commission members, Sutter Street merchants and staff are currently working together to refine the designs before streetscape work begins.I encourage residents to visit Sutter Street for a firsthand look at the new parking structure and a glimpse of the exciting changes on the way. The Historic District truly is Folsom's crown jewel. Protecting and enhancing its unique character are top priorities for all of us at City Hall.