Grantee Database

South Tower Community Land Trust

Grant Year

2026-27

Grant Program

Impact Projects

Award Amount

$17,500.00

Project Description

South Tower Community Land Trust will use California Arts Council funds to support a community-centered design process for the creation of an accessible and culturally grounded Zócalo at a recently acquired community-owned building in Fresno’s South Tower neighborhood. Currently, the site frontage consists of cracked asphalt and weeds. Through community engagement, digitally fabricated metal panels, native landscaping, and outdoor gathering elements, the project will transform the entry into a welcoming public-facing space that reflects local identity, resilience, and shared prosperity. The Zócalo will create a more inviting transition from the public street into a protected community-centered environment designed to foster visibility, connection, and belonging for historically underserved communities. The completed space will support future arts, cultural, and community programming rooted in accessibility and community care.

Organization Summary

South Tower Community Land Trust advances a range of programs designed to expand equitable development, community ownership, and neighborhood vitality in Fresno’s Tower District, with a strong emphasis on arts, culture, and community identity.

Our Affordable Housing program remains a core focus, creating sustainable homeownership opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals and families through the Community Land Trust (CLT) model. By separating land ownership from housing, we ensure long-term affordability while enabling residents to build equity and maintain community control. Our work includes the rehabilitation of existing homes, new infill development, and long-term stewardship to prevent displacement and stabilize neighborhoods.

Arts and culture are central to our approach to community development. Through our Parks and Arts programming, we activate public spaces and foster a sense of belonging. At Broadway Parque and other neighborhood sites, we host community events, performances, and gatherings that bring residents together. Our public art initiatives further contribute to neighborhood beautification while reflecting the cultural identity, history, and creativity of the community.

We also convene the annual Queer Housing Summit, which integrates cultural expression with housing advocacy, creating space for dialogue, storytelling, and community-led solutions. Together, these programs reflect a holistic approach that uplifts housing, arts, and culture as essential to a thriving and inclusive neighborhood.

Organization

South Tower Community Land Trust

Address

115 N CALAVERAS ST

FRESNO

93701-1843

County

Fresno

Region

Central Valley

Website

Email

Congressional District

California's 21st congressional district

State Assembly District

California's 31st State Assembly District

State Senate District

State Senate District 14

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