Public Markets in the Fruitvale: Plaza del Sol

Many of Fruitvale’s main streets are lined with independently owned businesses. There is no doubt that the neighborhood offers a wealth of opportunities for those looking to begin their own business venture.

However, retail space on any of the main streets, including Foothill Boulevard, Fruitvale Avenue, 14th Avenue, and International Boulevard can often be too expensive for first time entrepreneurs. In response to this many public markets have sprung up around the Fruitvale, which offer folks rentable retail space at a price significantly lower than the cost of an entire storefront.

“It’s very expensive for businesses to come into the Fruitvale,” said Mario Juarez, the man behind Plaza del Sol. “Plaza del Sol is an experiment to show that people can prosper if given the ability. Most folks just need an easy way to do business.”

Plaza del Sol on International Boulevard is one such public market. The market is made up of 20 spaces available for vendors to set up booths or small stalls and as of October was approximately 80% leased and still under partial construction on the inside.

Like other public markets Plaza del Sol puts the emphasis on small business and provides added flavor to the Fruitvale.