• Pick one problem you solve for the neighborhood - Focus on daily needs first. Grocery, practical retail, family friendly dining, fitness, kids activities, personal services.
• Talk to people - Walk the district with a notebook, talk to a commercial real estate brokers, talk to landlords and property managers, talk to residents and workers, and talk to politicians
• Show up to local development meetings, listen for planned projects, timelines, and priority categories.

SB 304 takes effect January 1, and Jack London Square enters a new era. We break down what the law changes, why the waterfront still feels under-served, and what types of businesses Oakland residents keep leaving town to find. If you own a business or want one, you will learn where to start, who to talk to, and how to move early in a market that has open space right now.

Jack London has TONS of potential. There is too much open retail space there. There is a great opportunity for a combination of local and national businesses. Use national chain restaurants to bring value dining dining for families and bistros for our “foodies” - they can serve different customers and co-exist.

Add in an Apple Store and we would really have something. Emeryville has one. Berkeley has one. Oakland does not.

Our local small business owners could sprinkle into this ecosystem and thrive. Wouldn’t you want to be 2 doors down from the Apple Store.

Stick around til the end to get a clear what to do next plan if you want space in Jack London Square before the rents skyrocket.