Publication Date

Fall 2020

Degree Type

Master's Project

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Department

Urban and Regional Planning

First Advisor

Frances L. Edwards

Keywords

Façade Improvement Programs (FIP), the San Francisco Bay Area (SFBA) Municipalities, Storefronts, Common Practices

Abstract

The purpose of this research project is to provide a comprehensive inventory and analysis of FIPs that currently operate in the SFBA, identify common components, analyze unique features, evaluate program goals, and determine successful practices. The intent of this study is to encourage municipalities, particularly in the SFBA, that do not operate a FIP to consider implementing one by providing a starting point and guidelines for program development. Many municipalities are unable to research FIPs due to limited staff hours and other competing priorities. Through this research, staff will be able to identify what resources are required to operate a FIP, the types of businesses that participate, the purpose of operating a FIP in a particular city, and some of the outcomes of FIPs. This will allow staff to compare the costs and benefits of operating a FIP and decide if this type of program is necessary to respond to issues arising in their city.To better understand how FIPs are managed and used in the SFBA, this research project provides the following:

• Background information on redevelopment agencies (RDAs) in California;

• Historical analysis of UR and FIPs;

• Inventory of FIPs in the SFBA;

• Comparison of the features, outputs, and outcomes of FIPs in the SFBA; and

• An assessment of the criteria for a successful FIP.

A blueprint or set of guidelines about how to operate a FIP does not exist; as such, this project aims to solve this problem and asks the following research question: What are the common, unique, and successful practices for municipalities in the SFBA that currently operate a FIP?

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