Barry Swenson, a visionary developer, significantly shaped San Jose's skyline and facilitated the revitalization of downtown Santa Cruz after the 1989 earthquake. Despite challenges like a major stroke and a plane crash, Swenson's influence on construction and development was profound. His commitment to rebuilding Santa Cruz is remembered through brass plaques, acknowledging his transformative efforts. Swenson's willingness to work with unions, particularly on the restoration of historic sites like the La Bahia Hotel, underscores his collaborative spirit, making him a crucial figure in urban recovery and development in the Bay Area.
Nobody did it like Barry Swenson, ever. No one had a broader influence on such diverse things as construction, management, development, ownership, and every category.
If you didnât have people like Barry Swenson, weâd probably still be facing a devastated downtown. I think that's a fair statement.
He was willing to put his money where his mouth was... Barry Swenson had a mixed relationship with unions but found common ground for progress.
Barry Swenson was more reasonable than the unions on that particular issue, he really was somebody who wanted to get things done.
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