
San Francisco, CA – Jess Montejano, Vice President of Public Policy at the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, recently lauded the San Francisco Downtown Development Council (DDC) for its pivotal role in sustaining the "Downtown First Thursdays" initiative. Montejano stated on social media, > "Huge shout out to @SF_DDC for helping to keep the Downtown First Thursdays party + economic engine for downtown SF going!" This acknowledgment highlights the ongoing efforts to inject vitality into the city's core business district.
Downtown First Thursdays is a monthly series of art, music, culture, and retail activations launched in early 2023. The program aims to increase foot traffic, support local businesses, and foster a vibrant urban experience in downtown San Francisco. These events typically occur on the first Thursday of each month, offering diverse programming from live music to special retail promotions.
The San Francisco Chamber of Commerce's Downtown Development Council (DDC) serves as a crucial partner in these revitalization efforts. Comprised of business leaders, developers, and city officials, the DDC focuses on initiatives that promote investment, job growth, and urban vitality. Their work includes advocating for supportive policies and collaborating on programs designed to bring people back to the city center.
The DDC's support aligns with broader city strategies, including Mayor London Breed's comprehensive Downtown Recovery Plan. This plan emphasizes attracting new businesses, supporting existing ones, and creating dynamic public spaces and events. Organizations like the DDC are instrumental in coordinating efforts to boost the downtown area as a destination for both residents and visitors.
Jess Montejano, in her capacity at the Chamber of Commerce, actively engages in advocating for policies that support economic development and urban revitalization. Her public recognition underscores the significant impact of collaborative initiatives between city entities and business organizations. The continued success of Downtown First Thursdays is seen as a key indicator of progress in San Francisco's post-pandemic economic recovery.