This mural, painted by Jillian Goeler, is a welcome addition to Capitol Avenue, making the boarded up storefront seem like a place one would want to hang out near.
Ten years ago, there was nothing about this block of Capitol Avenue that encouraged people to linger when not specifically at Red Rock Tavern or La Paloma Sabanera. The space between the two was used for open air drug sales. It wasn’t the worst, but it wasn’t the greatest either.
It helps that the long vacant building across the street was converted to housing. It helps that a person with vision renovated a building in the middle of the block, restored the storefronts, and lives on site. It helps that seating and flowers have been added, telling people it’s fine to stay awhile. One other thing that helps: when businesses do not cater almost entirely to the State workers, acknowledging that there are people around on the weekend and after 5 PM. Red Rock has done well for decades because it is a place that welcomes everyone.
When we talk about needing balance, you find it on this block. The changes have not displaced anybody, but have put into use spaces that had been vacant for years. Those who have lived in the neighborhood a long time are not excluded from patronizing businesses here because there are a mix — a few fancy, a few middle-range, and a few that just about anyone can afford. Outdoor seating is done thoughtfully, as to not impede pedestrians.
It’s great to see how small changes are adding up.
