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<br />Renaissance Markers <br /> <br />There are markers of Renaissance in Riverside. They represent an extraordinary <br />takeoff of activity and success. They are, however, works in progress. We must <br />continue to get better. <br /> <br />Bricks and Mortar <br /> <br />The number one marker is the Riverside Renaissance Initiative itself. A five year <br />plan, it is the largest and most inclusive infrastructure and capital improvement <br />program ever financed by the City. The Initiative will define and enhance <br />Riverside as one of California's most successful cities. <br /> <br />Investing over $780 million, it builds projects that will improve the quality of life <br />and make Riverside a more attractive place to do business. <br /> <br />The Initiative includes funds for parks, libraries, the museum, the Fox Theater, <br />public safety facilities, railroad grade separations, senior centers, citywide <br />beautification, the child care center, upgrades to sewer, water, electric, and storm <br />drain systems, and improvements to airport facilities. <br /> <br />So far $417 million has been allocated to Riverside Renaissance projects. Take a <br />look around the City. Go on the City web site. Visit nearby parks. Come to <br />downtown. Talk to City staff. Ask a Council member. <br />In 2007 the City Manager should monitor the Riverside Renaissance Initiative <br />and report to the Council every 120 days. And, I would encourage Council <br />members to host open house visits to major Renaissance projects. We need to <br />invite the community to see what is being built. <br /> <br />Technology <br /> <br />Technology is the second marker, for it is changing everything. <br /> <br />The City of Riverside and AT&T have agreed to a wireless broadband internet <br />access network which will cover the city's BO-plus square miles. <br /> <br />It will be the nation's largest Wi-Fi network designed for public and municipal use. <br /> <br />We also have developed a Digital Inclusion Program, which provides free, <br />refurbished computers to families with household incomes under $45,000. The <br />goal is to donate at least 3,000 computers a year. <br /> <br />The Chief Information Officer should report every six months to the Council on <br />progress toward a wireless city and on success in solving the digital divide in <br />Riverside. <br /> <br />3 <br />