Dimond

A Community Project

“Lara planted a seed here. Her leadership in the early years was a catalyst for the eventual $4.4 million Fruitvale Alive Project” – Libby Schaaf, Oakland Mayor

Co-author of a community consensus building survey with Council Member Jean Quan and a pivotal player in the award of an early TC planning grant, Lara had a vision for the neighborhood that involved streetscape and transit improvements, public art, enhanced retail and clean streets.

This early vision and call to action remained present through the years. A grass roots effort now ten years in the making, has resulted in signs of rejuvenation along this stretch of the MacArthur Corridor.

The project is a successful and ongoing example of creative placemaking.

facade improvements with signs that say Explore the Dimond shopping neighborhood and nature in Oakland at Fruitvale and MacArthur

mosaic tile art on the sidewalk in the shape of a yellow diamond with a hummingbird

large outdoor banner sign that says only you can prevent litter on Dimond

Community identity, pavement differentiation, and grassroots advocacy groups.

two men wait at a new transit hub in the Dimond District in Oakland

retail variety and facade improvements in the Dimond District

Well-lit, accessible retail frontages and a new transit stop.

three people work on painting a large wall mural as two children stop to look

a large diverse crowd gathers in a parking lot for a grand opening event

Safe public gathering spaces and community art.