Bridgeport SR 173 Downtown Revitalization Outreach Project issues final report

BRIDGEPORT – The city’s SR 173 Downtown Revitalization Outreach Project funded by a USDA Rural Development grant has issued its final report at the regular monthly meeting of the city council last Wednesday, Sept. 21.

City Planner Kurt Danison recommended scheduling a joint workshop between the council and the Revitalization Committee to discuss in greater detail the responses of the business community that was surveyed in the outreach effort. A workshop was agreed for 6 p.m. last Monday, Sept. 26.

Danison said among the key findings the door-to-door survey revealed:

• Communication – More communication across the language barrier with city officials including forms and permitting

• Regulatory – Updating and clarifying city codes and regulations and applications.

• Financial – What resources might be available for small businesses.

• Unregulated competition – Vendors without required business licenses or paying taxes undercutting local businesses

• Public Safety – More lighting on sidewalks, crosswalks, etc.

• Community Events – More community events wanted.

Turning to other Revitalization topics Danison said the city received a Rural Development grant to replace gateway signage at both ends of the city.

Another grant for the tree sculpture parking lot will allow addition of an ADA ramp and sidewalk access among other improvements.

The city applied for a Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) grant for Berryman Park upgrades and came in fourth among 62 applicants for consideration. Those funds will be used for a variety of projects including trails, court resurfacing, picnic tables, ADA access, new bathrooms, and more.

Tree sculpture preservation is looking for about $80,000 from the Council of Governments to pay for foundations for the large tree sculptures that are a critical component of visitor attractions in the city.