Kearney plans downtown revitalization project
by
Dara Newson
Story Created:
Feb 9, 2012 at 6:51 PM CDT
Story Updated:
Feb 9, 2012 at 7:35 PM CDT
Cities across the country are trying to save their downtown.
One key to that is giving residents more options downtown.
And, create more traffic.
That's why the city of Kearney is competing for a $350,000 downtown revitalization grant from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development.
Some goals of the plan include updating the street lights, adding power infrastructure, expanding green space, plus adding a small pocket park.
There's more to downtown Kearney than what meets the eye and if the city proposal is approved for this dainty town that might mean more traffic flow for area businesses.
"It covers our new neighborhood kitty corner from us the World Theater and then just 3 blocks away is the performing arts center so it really draws together the cultural entities," said Museum of Nebraska Art Director Audrey Kauders.
Part of the Phase One revitalization plan was an idea to rip through the entire strip of 24th St and Central Avenue where a splash park will be placed adjacent from the Museum.
"I definitely think that this is a worthy investment. Kearney has a very vibrant downtown, but as with anything you can't assume it's going to stay that way forever," said Kauders.
While the splash park was not included in Phase 2, just a block down the overall anticipation is certainly evident.
"I think anything they do for downtown will help us, the more traffic we can get the better for everyone," said Attic owner John Wiersma.
If approved, the downtown receives a $350,000 grant. That requires a 25 percent match from the City of Kearney. It is an investment a few tax payers say is worth it.
"It'll keep the downtown healthy, with the variety of businesses that it has a lot of which are specialty and upscale businesses. Anything that can reinforce that would be a benefit to the community," said resident Susan Lamberts.
"I do think it's a good investment if we don't have to raise the taxes awfully too much," resident Darrel Brown said.
Bobbi Pettit, the Development Services Director of Kearney says Phase Two is still pending. Once the City of Kearney submits a formal application, it will be assessed by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development.
Most Popular