Palo Alto's City Council is exploring ideas to revitalize downtown foot traffic, including a costly sidewalk widening proposal. The article suggests a more cost-effective solution: ending remote work for city employees. The presence of office workers downtown is crucial as they support local businesses through daily activities like dining and shopping. By mandating a return to the office, the city could stimulate economic activity without the need for expensive infrastructure changes. The author believes such a decision would garner resistance from unions, yet insists it's necessary for revitalization.
"If those workers were back downtown, that would create momentum. People attract people."
"Smart restaurant owners know that when their place is nearly empty, the place to seat newly arriving diners is by the windows..."
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