University of the Pacific First Lady Jean Callahan is co-chair of an ad-hoc committee that will determine how more than $23 million in state funds will be used to revitalize the iconic Miracle Mile Shopping District just south of the Stockton Campus.

In a melding of town and gown, Callahan and Miracle Mile business owner Kevin Dougherty were selected to spearhead the effort to improve the district, which includes businesses fronting Pacific Avenue from Alpine Avenue to Harding Way and businesses on Harding Way from El Dorado Street to Lincoln Street.

In the first committee meeting, held on Pacific’s Stockton Campus on Oct. 11, Callahan and Dougherty each received eight votes to serve as chair. Committee member and former Pacific Director of Athletics Ted Leland suggested they serve as co-chairs. That motion was unanimously approved (16-0) by a committee that includes business owners, property owners, residents, employees and other diverse stakeholders.

“I look forward to working with Jean and the dedicated people on this committee who care so much about The Mile,” said Dougherty, president of First Commercial Real Estate.

Added Callahan: “This was a wonderful kickoff for a very important initiative to help the Miracle Mile, Stockton and University of the Pacific. Comments from those in the room showed that everyone is engaged.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but I think we are going to have a lot of these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities in Stockton.”

State Rep. Carlos Villapudua, D-Stockton, surprised attendees at the meeting with news of additional funding, unveiling a ceremonial $3.1 million check. This funding supplements the $20 million the city received for the project in October 2022, which was also made possible by Villapudua, a native Stocktonian who grew up riding his bicycle on the Miracle Mile.

The funding will be used in three areas: pedestrian crossing enhancements, public safety and revitalization.

“It is our first step and it’s exciting, but we also know we have a lot of work ahead of us,” Villapudua said. “I am very pleased with the selection of committee members and ecstatic with the two leaders. I truly think we can make The Mile the centerpiece of Stockton.”

The university’s relationship with the Miracle Mile dates back decades. Callahan has worked diligently to rekindle close ties since she became a member of the Miracle Mile Improvement District’s board.

Callahan helped reestablish 10% discounts for Pacificans at many restaurants and businesses, developed pamphlets promoting Mile events, encouraged twice-weekly shuttle buses to bring students from campus to the district and led planning of a back-to-school event on Pacific Avenue that included a Ferris Wheel.

Located within walking distance of the Stockton Campus, the palm-tree lined stretch of businesses includes more than 150 restaurants, retail and service shops. 

All $23.1 million must be spent by January 1, 2028.