Commission considers reworking North Main streetscape to add parking and improve safety

At the Economic and Community Development Commission’s March meeting, commissioners discussed a proposed adjustment to the North Main streetscape to add parking near the post office and the new Center Square development.

Committee member (S7) told the group the original streetscape design had accounted for a bus stop that no longer exists and that successful downtown businesses now need more parking. "We have an opportunity before we paved the road, to change some of the streetscape work out here ... to add more spaces," the committee member said, noting the plan could add about 19 spaces if approved and later taken to city council.

Commissioners agreed the change would require council approval and coordination with public‑works staff. The group discussed temporary solutions for employees — such as encouraging workers to use the Wheeler garage after 5 p.m. or pursuing weekend agreements with the post office — and emphasized reusing existing streetscape materials where possible to save costs.

Public‑safety measures were raised in the same discussion. Chair (S2) described Jack Garage as part of a directed patrol route and said community wellness officers and public‑works staff include it in nightly rounds. Commissioners expressed a preference for better lighting as the primary deterrent, while acknowledging cameras are under consideration in the July 1 budget. "The deterrent really is better lighting than cameras, right?" the chair said.

Why it matters: The downtown streetscape and parking proposals reflect growing demand for short‑term parking driven by new tenants and restaurants. Commissioners said balancing customer access, resident parking and safety patrols will shape how and when changes proceed.

Next steps: Staff will pursue a city council approval path for the streetscape adjustments, continue discussions with property owners and return with cost estimates and plans for lighting and patrol coordination.