Fresno's Lowell neighborhood unveils welcome signs

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Some big changes are underway in one small part of Fresno. The Lowell Neighborhood is unveiling a new campaign to show off the improvements in what was long considered a dangerous part of town.

There are new welcome signs for drivers as they travel the perimeter of the Lowell Neighborhood in Central Fresno.

"So much has happened in the last six years that it is remarkable," said resident Phil Skei. "Literally, this is a different neighborhood than when we moved in."

Skei and his wife are raising their two young daughters in the Lowell Neighborhood. Of course people questioned their choice to move here eight years ago from Northeast Fresno.

"There's just so much incredible stuff happening in this neighborhood we want to be part of it," said Skei.

Questions about the move were somewhat validated when the Skeis soon found themselves faced with the neighborhood's crime problem, a homicide in the alley behind their home. "Those perceptions are myths that are only told from afar," Skei said.

The Lowell Community Development Corporation says those crime rates are going down. And now involvement and ownership of Lowell are rising.

"Our community is just defined by so many other positive things now," said Esther Delahay, Executive Director off LCDC. "We have a great sense of community here."

Unveiled Thursday are welcome signs, seven banners on display featuring artwork from students who live here.

"This is just a way to display just a portrait of beauty in our community," Delahay said.

"Everything is improving," Skei said. "And that's how you ultimately transform a neighborhood; improve the quality of life for the community. Abandoning a neighborhood isn't the only option."