(KMJ) The years-long debate is now officially over. Fulton Mall is no more.
Fulton Street is here, again.
The street re-opened to traffic Saturday afternoon, five decades after it was transformed into a pedestrian mall. Thousands turned out for the event.
The $20 million project was spearheaded by former Mayor Ashley Swearengin and completed under the watch of current Mayor Lee Brand’s administration.
“Believe it or not, it was a controversial issue to bring traffic back to Fulton. It was a controversial issue to believe in downtown Fresno. Today we believe in downtown Fresno”, Councilman Oliver Baines (pictured above) said.
As dozens of classic cars dragged Fulton Street, thousands mingled and celebrated what is hoped to be a new beginning for one of the oldest roads in the Central Valley.
“Fulton Street is open for business!” said downtown businessman Raul DeAlba (pictured above). “A great city needs a great downtown” he told the large crowd.
Among those taking to the podium Saturday, Mayor Lee Brand, Councilman Oliver Baines, Assemblyman Joaquin Arambula, Rep. Jim Costa and former Mayor Ashley Swearengin.
Representatives from Senators Feinstein and Harris also presented awards of recognition to Mayor Brand.
