Citrus County's Tourist Development Council is gearing up for significant improvements in Crystal River, focusing on enhancing walkability and community engagement. During the April 10 meeting, officials unveiled plans for a comprehensive walkability audit aimed at connecting both sides of Citrus Avenue. This initiative will assess the need for sidewalks, benches, and trash cans, particularly in the wake of damage caused by Hurricane Idelia.

The council emphasized the importance of collaboration with the city to secure funding for these projects. Various funding sources, including AARP and state grants, are being targeted to support the development of a more pedestrian-friendly environment. "This is one of the big things Main Streets can do," a council member stated, highlighting the potential for revitalizing the area.

In addition to walkability, the council is looking to revitalize local events, transforming the previously seasonal "Art on the Avenue" into a monthly celebration to boost traffic to Heritage Village. Community involvement is a key focus, with initiatives like "Coffee on Main Street" encouraging local business owners and residents to share ideas for economic growth.

While discussions included the possibility of a walkover bridge to connect bike trails, it was deemed unfeasible due to engineering challenges. Instead, the council is exploring the installation of a pedestrian island with lighting to improve safety for those crossing busy roads.

The meeting also touched on the recent metro forecasting workshop, which provided valuable insights into future development and infrastructure needs. Council members expressed enthusiasm for leveraging this data to enhance city planning efforts.

As Citrus County moves forward with these initiatives, the emphasis remains on fostering community engagement and creating a vibrant, accessible environment for residents and visitors alike.