Community members celebrate placemaking

The gathering space on the corner of 50th and University has been in development for some time. Local efforts to slow down traffic and increase pedestrian safety are showing results in this new “Place-Keeping” effort.

The City of San Diego has now officially permitted the benches and tables, a place for the Somali community to gather, through a new Placemaking Ordinance.

Local youth, led by muralist Haadi Mohammed, created a mural across the street, with images that resonate with the local culture, while slowing down traffic.

Now both elders and youth can enjoy this gathering place, and share the beauty of their community with those passing by.

To learn more about Speak City Heights, visit https://www.speakcityheights.org

Produced by Natalia Valerdi-Rogers and Lucas Cartaxo at the Media Arts Center San Diego https://mediaartscenter.org