In a recent government meeting, city officials unanimously approved a resolution aimed at enhancing community engagement and development projects, particularly focusing on a proposed amphitheater project. The Thrasher Group, a prominent architecture and engineering firm based in West Virginia, presented their vision for the project, emphasizing the importance of public input and collaboration.

Craig Baker and Sam Rich from the Thrasher Group outlined their extensive experience in municipal parks and recreation planning, highlighting their commitment to community-driven projects. They acknowledged previous concerns raised by community members and expressed a desire to refine their proposal based on public feedback. Rich noted that the firm has been in operation for 40 years and has evolved from a municipal water and sewer engineering company to a comprehensive architecture and engineering firm with over 300 employees.

The Thrasher Group's approach includes conducting public surveys and workshops to gather community insights, ensuring that the development reflects the needs and desires of local residents. They emphasized that the planning process would begin from a foundational level, allowing for a thorough exploration of ideas and potential solutions.

City officials, including council members, expressed their support for the Thrasher Group's involvement, recognizing the need for a master plan that incorporates public input and identifies feasible options for the amphitheater. The discussion also touched on the significance of river access and the potential for grant funding to support the project.

While the meeting highlighted enthusiasm for the amphitheater, officials acknowledged the complexities involved in securing funding and navigating the development process. They reassured the community that transparency and public engagement would remain priorities as the project progresses.

The Thrasher Group plans to return for further discussions, aiming to refine their proposal and address any outstanding concerns from the council and community members. The meeting concluded with a commitment to fostering collaboration and ensuring that the amphitheater project aligns with the community's vision for development.