Officials to hear public comments

November 01, 2004|by DAVE McMILLION

CHARLES TOWN, W.VA. - Charles Town residents will get a second chance tonight to give their input on a proposal to expand a downtown revitalization project along East Washington Street.

A public input session to gather opinions about the proposed second phase of the revitalization will be at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall, at the corner of George and Washington Streets, Mayor Randy Hilton said.

Last year, city officials completed a $7.1 million revitalization of the downtown area, which included new sidewalks, streetlights, planters, a historical interpretive area beside the Jefferson County Courthouse and burying overhead utility lines.

The revitalization was along Washington Street from West to Samuel streets.

Now, city council members want to continue revitalizing Washington Street from Samuel Street east to Jefferson Avenue.

Although some designs would not change, such as streetlights, residents can give input on different types of sidewalk design or parking configurations, Hilton said Sunday.

Opinions so far have been mixed, Hilton said. Some town residents want wide sidewalks along East Washington Street while others, like the idea of narrower sidewalks to allow for more green space, Hilton said.

After tonight's meeting, public comments will be taken into consideration as city officials develop a plan for the revitalization, Hilton said.

A cost for the second leg of the revitalization has not been developed, Hilton said.

City officials expect to seek federal and state funding for the work, Hilton said.

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