Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents and Chamber warn of business harm from bridge closures; Council plans outreach
Summary
Residents and the Lambertville Chamber urged the council to help businesses prepare for an upcoming bridge closure, suggesting signage, coordinated promotions and asking the Bridge Commission for clearer schedules; councilors said they would coordinate with the Chamber and Bridge Commission.
Residents and business leaders told the Lambertville City Council that scheduled bridge work and related closures threaten downtown commerce and asked the city to take active steps to help local businesses prepare.
Judy Gleon (86 North Union Street) said there has been a “deafening silence” from officials about a large proposed development on the hill and also urged the council to help businesses cope with bridge closures. John Laori, speaking on behalf of the Lambertville Chamber of Commerce, said the Chamber appreciates the council’s recent sign approvals and expressed gratitude for support in staging events; he added, “we equally remain concerned about the impact of the bridge closure.”
Council members described outreach efforts with the Chamber, plans to place signs directing visitors to alternative side streets and considerations of free-parking or promotional programs to boost visits during closures. Council leaders said they have requested dates from the Bridge Commission to provide businesses sufficient lead time for renovations or adjustments.
Residents and councilors also discussed the idea of coordinated social-media promotions, holiday shopping programs and temporary schedules for county or Bridge Commission representatives to meet with affected merchants. No formal mitigation program was approved at the meeting; councilors committed to additional discussions and to pursuing Bridge Commission dates and potential cooperative marketing with the Chamber.
