https://fullerton.granicus.com/player/clip/1950?view_id=2&redirect=true

You can see the full video at the above link (Walk on Wilshir begins at 1:41.13)

The future of the Walk on Wilshire (WoW) was discussed at the Fullerton City Council meeting on Oct. 15. 

Four council members were present for the meeting, and Mayor Nicholas Dunlap, who is the representative for District 2, recused himself. This was due to potential conflicts of interest, as his father is part owner of the Villa del Sol property located on the Walk on Wilshire Street. Mayor Pro Term Fred Jung led the meeting instead.

Volunteers from the Save Walk on Wilshire team, local business owners, and residents were among the 43 who spoke to keep WoW closed to traffic. Nathan Bass from Senator Josh Newman’s office read a statement: “Since its launch and the pandemic, the Walk on Wilshire program has created a lively community space in downtown Fullerton. I’m among many who believe that with further enhancements, it has the potential to become an even greater asset to the area.” The statement also suggested there were funding opportunities to beautify and advertise the area.

James Kim, a volunteer with Save Walk on Wilshire, presented a 175-page document of support from business owners and residents. The document included statements of support from over 65 local businesses, nearly 2000 signatures, and 250 personal testimonials from community members. Doctor Karen Stocker, a Fullerton resident, social scientist professor at Cal State Fullerton, and published author of a book about walkable cities and placemaking pedestrians, said, “When cities prioritize walkability over car-centric driving culture, there are multiple and interconnected benefits to community economy, health, the arts, environmental stewardship, and civic engagement.” 

Eight people spoke to open WoW to through traffic. Tony Bushala, a business owner and founder of Fullerton Heritage, said he did not understand why people thought closing down the street made it more walkable when there have always been sidewalks. He was amenable to closing it off for events.

Councilmember Dr. Shana Charles said, “Going back to what council member Jung said about that $30,000, we’re recouping. We have a $289 million budget. So if we’re talking about spending $80,000 for this thing that so many people love, I think that’s a worthwhile investment.”

Councilmember Dr. Ahmad Zahra said, “We’re not calculating the benefits to the businesses and the economic activity that will bring revenue to the city. There is an intangible benefit for the public as well. This is why we build parks. The parks don’t generate revenue. This is why we have a Public Library. There’s an intangible benefit.”

A motion by Charles and a substitute motion by Jung failed.

Jung said, “Madam Councilwoman, what I would support is the full closure of the entire St., not just a 1/2 measure or quarter measure. So what I want to see is the full closure of the street. In a manner that makes perfect sense for longevity and for the community to have a really nice thing.”

Charles said, “A friendly amendment that we will then have that plan of just the full closure of the entire St. and the motion includes the resolution with the findings.”

PASSED 3 TO 1, COUNCILMEMBER BRUCE WHITAKER NO