SAN JOSE — Wide-ranging efforts are underway to find merchants to fill the empty ground-floor spaces along two sides of the Signia by Hilton San Jose , endeavors that could help lift the downtown economy if they succeed.

Colliers, a commercial real estate firm, has begun to scout for dining establishments and retailers for the hotel tower at 170 South Market St.

“We are looking to lease about 30,000 square feet of spaces at the Signia,” said Nick Goddard, a senior vice president with Colliers. “We are going to put some high-end restaurants in some of those spaces. These will be very fine, swanky dining establishments.”

Some of the spaces will be leased to retailers, such as personal salons and spas, according to Goddard.

“We are already getting inquiries from some top-level restauran

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