Making West Chester a “Destination”

West Chester needs more pedestrian friendly areas, parking and open spaces according to a consultant charged with coming up with ways to make the borough a regional destination.

Borough Planning Consultant, Thomas Comitta says West Chester needs to capitalize on its location as the center of  the  Philadelphia, Lancaster, Wilmington and Pottstown region. 

What West Chester Needs

Comitta told members of the borough council Monday that more retail shopping and dining options are needed to make West Chester a prime day trip destination. 

The borough is looking for ways to preserve, and maintain historic sites and land while creating attractions that appeal to teens, young adults, and seniors. 

At the public meeting attended only by council members and West Chester Patch many ideas were tossed out to add to a comprehensive plan of future zoning needs for West Chester. Adding additional attractions like a theatre and community events would create interest and revenue. 

Among concerns raised during Tuesday’s meeting:

•  The need to meet demand for student housing. 

•  Promoting the arts in downtown West Chester.

•  Preserving the historic West Chester including reintroducing the trolley line. 

• Creating continuity of services for every community in the borough and collaboration with other municipalities for large projects 

 What’s Next

The Borough Council will continue the discussion on how to improve West Chester 6pm Tuesday July 17, 2012 at the Comprehensive Plan Scope Meeting. The board will decide how to implement the best ideas brought up at Tuesday’s meeting.