Downtown Area Discussed in Comprehensive Plan Meeting Thursday

The downtown area was the focus at the Effingham 2050 Comprehensive Plan gathering Thursday evening.

(SOME OF THOSE GATHERED THURSDAY NIGHT TO DISCUSS DOWNTOWN EFFINGHAM ISSUES)

Parking was a chief focus. Some felt the City should consider building a parking garage. City Director of Public Works Jeremy Heuerman said the cost to build and the maintenance of a parking garage is a consideration. Jon Schafer of Baseball Card Connection, though, said better utilization of building space in the downtown area is going to lead to the need for more parking than is now available. Heuerman said a location being considered for a garage is along the south side of Washington Avenue between 4th and 5th Streets, which could also help provide more spaces for employees of Effingham County offices.

Better utilization of the public transportation system now available in the downtown area was suggested. Dr. Ruben Boyajian liked that idea but suggested some artistic touches to make the buses look more inviting could help. There was also consideration of more parking spaces on the south side of Fayette Avenue once the reconstruction of the street is completed.

There was support for beautification efforts for the downtown area, and Heuerman said that option is being explored.

High tech options were also part of the discussion. City Engineer Luke Thoele said that there is technology available that can help motorists locate available parking spaces. A need for improved Wi-Fi and Internet service was also suggested.

City Commissioners Libby Moeller and Larry Micenheimer sat in on Thursday's discussion. 

Different topics are being considered almost each week as the City continues through the 18-month process of developing a new Comprehensive Plan. The public is invited to participate.