Downtown Santa Cruz Strategic Plan

2019–2020
Initiated by the Downtown Association and Economic Development of Santa Cruz
Role: Abra Allan – Interim Executive Director

As Interim Executive Director, Abra Allan oversaw the development of a comprehensive strategic plan for Downtown Santa Cruz in partnership with Progressive Urban Management Associates (PUMA). Allan led stakeholder engagement, guided cross-sector collaboration, and helped translate community input into actionable strategies for a more vibrant and resilient downtown.

The plan’s recommendations—spanning cleanliness and safety, economic vitality, mobility, and district expansion—established a roadmap for improved management and activation. The work ultimately catalyzed the Downtown Association’s effort to form a Property-Based Improvement District (PBID), laying the foundation for a more sustainable and coordinated future for downtown Santa Cruz.