- April 24, 2024
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The public got a chance to have their say on plans for the downtown at a meeting April 17 at the Anderson-Price Memorial Building. The city is currently updating the Downtown Master Plan, covering Granada Boulevard from the ocean to Orchard Street and a few blocks north and south.
The first speaker from the audience of about 30 people asked if the Master Plan was concerned with impact on people who already live in the community and have to deal with traffic.
“We absolutely are,” said Peter Sechler, of GAI Consultants. “We’re working on walkability and pedestrian crossings, especially on Granada. We’d like to slow down traffic so people can see what’s there.”
Another speaker, identified as Erline, said there are plenty of activities for seniors, but not enough for young people. She also said when people walk, they fear crossing Granada Boulevard and U.S. 1 so there should be safe pedestrian crossings.
The environment was a big concern among the attendees, with people urging preservation of parks and open spaces.
Parking was another concern. Public transit ideas included a ferry across the river and golf carts.
One speaker said the town had a lot more commercial development than when he moved here several years ago. He hopes Ormond Beach can stay a charming beachside community.
SURVEY AVAILABLE ON WEBSITE
Sechler said the committee wants to hear what citizens value about the downtown and what should be improved. Past improvement in the area include the landscaped medians, underground utilities, building improvement grants, etc.
To add an opinion to the public survey, go to ormondbeach.org. A city spokesman said a link to the survey will soon be added to the first page of the website. Until then, click on “departments” then “planning and building.” Click on “planning division services and forms” and, finally, click on “downtown/CRA district.” The site also has complete information on the Master Plan. There will be another public meeting on at 6 p.m. on May 15, at the Anderson-Price building.
The plan is being updated by The Downtown Steering Committee, a group of volunteers and it will be reviewed by the City Commission in September.
The Steering Committee will meet on May, 15 the same day as the next public meeting. On June 26 there will be a Steering Committee meeting with public comment at the Anderson-Price building,
