Golden State Today

Hundreds of people gathered near Aggie Square’s future public square on September 19 to hear Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg’s final State of the City address. In his speech, Steinberg highlighted the innovation district as a model partnership that can improve both the city and the region.

“I chose to deliver my last State of the City speech here at Aggie Square because it represents everything I believe a city should aspire to,” Steinberg said.

He noted the project’s anticipated $5 billion annual economic impact, its role in launching startups, creating 5,000 new jobs, and investing in surrounding communities through affordable housing and home repair funds.

“We are here today at Aggie Square because the future of this city lies in our neighborhoods,” he added. “A good capital city grows and diversifies its economic base, starting with its downtown. But a great capital city goes further and makes sure no neighborhood is left behind.”

The event featured performances by local musicians and participation from students at the Language Academy of Sacramento, which has been involved in the Quarter at Aggie Square program. City Council Member Eric Guerra emphasized that partnerships formed through Aggie Square have improved access to housing and job opportunities for nearby residents.

Steinberg announced last year he would not seek a third term but offered his assistance to his successor, advocating for more ambitious projects like Aggie Square's $1.1 billion development despite potential challenges.

“We spend a lot of time, energy and resources being for or against a project or initiative instead of coalition- and community-building that would extend more opportunity to every corner of our city,” he said. He also called for reserving part of tax revenue from new projects for infrastructure and economic development, citing Aggie Square as an example.

Chancellor Gary S. May praised Steinberg for his partnership on Aggie Square since before May became chancellor. The two visited Atlanta’s Technology Square innovation district in 2017 to discuss creating something similar in Sacramento.

“And now here we are seven years later, and just look around and you’ll see what cooperation and partnership are capable of building,” May said, commending developers Wexford Science & Technology and construction firms involved in the project.

May looks forward to hosting Steinberg again when Aggie Square’s first buildings open early next year.

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