East San Jose business district gets grant to beautify area

Alum Rock business advocates are getting a $100,000 grant to not just beautify the neighborhood, but also solidify the East San Jose district’s cultural identity.

Councilmember Peter Ortiz said he secured the grant during the city’s recent budgeting process to support the efforts of the Alum Rock Santa Clara Street Business Association — an organization where he served as public policy advisor before being elected to the San Jose City Council in 2022. Funds will be used toward beautification, trash removal and public art. More permanent fixes include collaborations with artists on murals and art installations, along with building a gateway structure for the city’s first cultural district, “La Avenida” at Mexican Heritage Plaza.

“Alum Rock is more than just a business corridor,” Ortiz said Wednesday. “It is a living, breathing reflection of the rich cultures, dreams and entrepreneurial spirit that makes East San Jose so special. This grant empowers the Alum Rock Santa Clara Street Business Association to lead these transformative initiatives and drive our community whole.”

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