Here’s a Way Forward for the Complete Streets Project

It is time for those who wrote and support the supplemental report to Rethinking Main Street, to offer an olive branch to those who had (and continue to have) legitimate concerns about this project.

I want to be very clear here, I am not speaking for anyone but myself. These are my thoughts and my observations. My blogs on the Complete Streets project have taken the position of opposing the timing and many of the components of this project. In formulating my opinions, I have spoken with those who support and oppose this project. Developers, landlords, merchants, members of community organizations, city councilors, city administrators and most importantly those who live in our city. I have also visited Barre, Vermont that went through a 3 1/2 year infrastructure improvement project on their Main Street and I have spoken with principals in two communities in Michigan. The thoughts I write about in my blogs are mine and I am the only person responsible for them.

While it is clear I have taken a very firm stance regarding this project, it is also clear to me that in all my observations, I believe that what the folks downtown have been asking for is to be considered a full partner in determining the direction of this project.

One can make the argument that the supporters of this project were not prepared at the onset to answer the concerns of those who would be most impacted. And the argument can be made that there was an over reaction (to the concerns raised) by those who are promoting this project. And you can argue that this is a chicken or egg issue. But the fact of the matter is, this project is moving forward. And regardless of current or previous positions folks have taken, all everyone wants for this project, is that it is successful when it is completed. 

Right now what is most important is for all parties to work together, to ensure minimal disruptions to businesses and those who frequent our downtown during construction. So how is this accomplished and what steps can be taken to not only get all the parties working together, but to have all the stakeholders treated as equals. And while there are many civic organizations that are strong supporters of this project it is important that they remember who is impacted most. Businesses, landlords and the community at large have the most to lose or gain. 

So here’s what I propose. There needs to be an open and honest discussion of why we are where we are today - a community divided. And there needs to be a discussion that respects all parties regardless of their positions on the project. And finally there needs to be a consensus (not a determination) of how to successfully navigate the 2 to 3 year construction of the Complete Streets Project.

First let’s put the egos on hold and admit mistakes were made in how this project was moved forward.

Second a discussion outlining the concerns and the impact this project will have on all the stakeholders.

And finally a consensus on how best to work together to survive the construction of this project.

There will be plenty of time after determining how we can successfully navigate the potential pitfalls of this project, to insure that future projects that have a city wide impact are handled in a manner that gives everyone the opportunity to be heard before determining if a project should move forward.

Right now there is still time to make adjustments to this project to improve its outcome. And right now there should be a willingness by the city administration and their consultants to hear what the community is still concerned about. And right now is the time for the city council to listen to the community and determine how they are going to pay for this project. And right now is the time to figure out how to heat the sidewalks and the streets.

While I still have many reservations concerning this project, I also know that now is the time to find a way to improve the outcome of this project. So let’s put the egos on hold and do our best to make some lemonade. It may still leave a twang in my mouth, but it is better then letting the lemons rot on the shelf.