Mixed public reaction to Beverly Street demonstration; residents raise creek pollution concerns

Public comment at the June 25 Staunton City Council meeting highlighted sharply different views of a recent Beverly Street demonstration project and raised environmental concerns about a downtown waterway.

Jed Ball, a resident and supporter of the demonstration, said the pilot improved downtown vibrancy and that online complaints have overstated on‑street impacts. "I've driven downtown many times this June... I watched from the city's painted benches as dozens of cars drove past... and vehicles used the designated delivery zones," Ball said. He noted the demonstration materials were funded by a grant and said the trial had drawn people into local businesses.

By contrast, resident Liza Bance described seeing a high volume of trash and hazardous debris in Lewis Creek near Beverly and Johnson streets, including tires, motor‑oil cans, clothing, gloves, needles, razors and rusted metal. She urged the city to consider a planting and bank‑stabilization project and to partner with appropriate agencies to reduce stormwater runoff and improve the corridor's appearance and function. "There were old tire parts... motor oil cans... latex gloves, needles, razors... beer cans... plastic bags..." Bance said, asking whether a community cleanup or planting partnership could be organized.

City manager Mr. Mayo told Council that the Beverly demonstration will remain in place through June 30 and crews will begin dismantling demonstration elements early the morning of June 29, and he encouraged continued public feedback via the project's survey. Council did not take action during the meeting specifically in response to the creek comments; staff follow‑up is expected through the city manager's office.