Chesapeake City Council approves Chamber-funded sidewalk landscaping and promenade lighting; Winterfest photo display OK'd

The Chesapeake City Council on June 23 approved plans from the Parks & Recreation Committee and the Chesapeake City Chamber of Commerce to install landscaping beds at either end of the new sidewalk connecting Charles Street and the Red Stone parking lot, and to add Chamber-funded lighting along the promenade.

The Chamber will pay for the landscaping beds and for additional lighting in a dark section near the Chair, officials said. Council members noted the west end of the sidewalk abuts State property and that landscaping there may need to be shifted slightly onto town land. The lighting was approved subject to the Town Manager's sign-off on look and location; a separate request to place a flag in the same area was tabled to the July meeting pending a sample from the Chamber.

Council also approved the Chamber's proposal to add a photo-op display in Becks Landing as part of Winterfest of Lights, with purchases not to exceed $5,000 this year. The Chamber's board letter proposing the displays was distributed to council prior to the vote; the council also asked staff to explore a leasing option for rotating displays.

All motions recorded in the minutes passed with the notation "All in favor, motion carried." Frank Vari moved the sidewalk landscaping approval, seconded by Hunter Dann. Ed O'Hara moved the lighting approval, seconded by Hunter Dann. Frank Vari moved the Winterfest display approval, seconded by Lee Adams.

Council materials show the Chamber will cover the direct costs of the landscaping and lighting; the town will take responsibility for any placement adjustments needed where the sidewalk meets State property. The council did not set an installation timeline beyond noting that lighting is expected to be installed soon and landscaping can begin afterward.

The council will revisit the flag request at its July meeting when the Chamber provides a sample flag.