SAN FRANCISCO-Albertson's, a major grocery retailer, plans to spend $185 million in 2002 to build and renovate stores in the Northern California area, which it sees as a strategic market for the company's future growth.

SAN FRANCISCO-Candlestick Park is in need of a new corporate sponsor, as the naming rights leases between the city, the 49ers and 3Com are due to expire next month.

SUNNYVALE, CA-Developer Jay Paul Co. has collaborated with VTA to build a new light rail station that is crucial to new development in the Sunnyvale area. A dedication ceremony will be held today.

OAKLAND-Oakland Mayor Jerry Brown has accepted a $1 million check on behalf of the city, which will help attract developers to Oakland's underused areas by guaranteeing financial viability.

SAN PABLO, CA-New developments are still budding throughout Northern California but their popping up in South San Francisco, Novado and Stockton thanks to less expensive land and a rapidly growing population.

SAN FRANCISCO-Marcus & Millichap reports that in the unstable Bay Area commercial market, investors have the most confidence in the retail sector. A regional manager for M&M says that as other markets decline, retail property looks better and better.

SAN FRANCISCO-Marcus & Millichap reports that in the unstable Bay Area commercial market, investors have the most confidence in the retail sector. A regional manager for M&M says that as other markets decline, retail property looks better and better.

SAN FRANCISCO- Jim Meadows' leaving is the result of neither a firing nor a resignation, says the board, but rather "an agreement." Meadows has been the only one to hold the position.