Community leader urges collaboration on Havre De Grace downtown improvements

The Havre de Grace City Council meeting on July 7, 2025, featured a passionate address from a long-time resident reflecting on the community's growth and the importance of collaboration in addressing current challenges. The speaker highlighted the recent Independence Day celebration as a testament to the dedication of local volunteers and community members who have worked tirelessly to enhance the city.

Drawing on nearly 40 years of experience in Havre de Grace, the speaker reminisced about the early days of the Downtown Focus Group, which aimed to revitalize the downtown area. He noted significant improvements, such as the standardization of streetscapes, which have transformed the city into a destination that attracts visitors and fosters pride among residents.

However, the speaker expressed concern over ongoing controversies, particularly regarding the State Theater, urging patience and cooperation among community members. He emphasized the need for a united front to ensure a prosperous future for all businesses and citizens in Havre de Grace.

Additionally, the speaker addressed the proposal to close Washington Street to pedestrians, sharing insights from urban planning history. He recounted both successful and unsuccessful attempts at pedestrianization in various cities, ultimately advising against a full closure. Instead, he suggested a compromise of using removable bollards for special events, estimating a cost of around $20,000 for implementation.

The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement and thoughtful planning as Havre de Grace continues to evolve and address its challenges.