The City of Banning, located in Riverside County, California, has recently caught the attention of Business View Magazine for its remarkable transformation and promising future. Nestled in the picturesque San Gorgonio Pass, Banning offers a unique allure with its natural charms and rich historical tapestry. From its strategic location to its commitment to sustainable development, Banning is positioning itself as an ideal place to call home.
Embracing Growth and Development
Banning’s journey from a crucial stagecoach stop to a diverse and vibrant city has been remarkable. In the past, Banningicity experienced limited growth and development. However, under the leadership of City Manager Doug Schulze, the city is now witnessing significant expansion.
The city is developing over 10,000 new homes, including the Atwell project by Tri Pointe Homes and the Rancho San Gorgonio project by Diversified Pacific. These developments showcase a strategic approach to growth, balancing thoughtful planning while preserving the city’s unique character.
Sustainable Living and Renewable Energy
Banning is committed to sustainable development and is taking proactive measures to promote green practices. The city’s electric utility provides low electric rates, and its water rates are competitive compared to neighboring communities.
Notably, Banning’s electric utility is approaching 80% renewable energy, surpassing California’s targets for green energy. By integrating renewable energy into its utility infrastructure, Banning sets itself apart and paves the way for a greener future.
Revitalizing the Downtown Area
Banning’s downtown area, once a thriving hub, has faced challenges over the years. However, the city has set its sights on revitalization. Plans include implementing fees for vacant building registration and annual fire inspections to incentivize absentee property owners to lease or sell their properties. The city also owns land in the downtown core that will be developed into a full-service hotel and multifamily housing units. These efforts aim to support small businesses and restore the downtown area to its former grandeur.
Improving Infrastructure for the Future
As Banning prepares for growth, the focus is on improving infrastructure to accommodate the expected influx of businesses and residents. The city has received grants for active transportation planning and downtown revitalization, allowing for safer streets, enhanced crosswalks, and community gathering spaces. Additionally, Banning plans to repurpose unused alleyways in the downtown area into charming outdoor dining experiences and community gathering spots.
Partnerships and Strategic Alliances
Banning’s transformation is not solely driven by its efforts but by strategic alliances and partnerships with various tenants and developers. These have played a crucial role in shaping the city’s growth. Notable brands like Skechers and Wyndham Microtel have chosen Banning as their location, bringing investment and opportunities to the city. The arrival of new retailers, such as Boot Barn and PetSmart, further adds to the commercial development in the area.
Looking Ahead – Embracing the Digital Age
Banning is focused on keeping pace with the digital age. The city implements advanced technologies like Net Suites for Government and OpenGov for financial transparency. The SmartGov permitting system will streamline the permit process and enable customers to monitor real-time electricity usage and outages. These technological upgrades demonstrate Banning’s commitment to bringing the city into the 21st century.
As Banning enters an exciting era of growth and development, it remains dedicated to preserving its historical roots and small-town charm. With its strategic location, sustainable practices, revitalization efforts, improved infrastructure, and digital advancements, Banning is to become a thriving and forward-thinking city.
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