Shinholser on downtown and discussion

Mayoral candidate Brandon Shinholser wants open dialogue for a possible Master Downtown Plan ...

I will not endorse a master plan that denies reasonable discussion and debate. The master plan that I will ultimately support must address both long-term and short-term issues by putting in place a strategy to encompass the entirety of the debate. We have to come together as a city and address an array of issues such as economic development, park and ride alternative transportation zones, historic and architectural preservation and restoration, vehicle congestion, projected job growth, crime and safety, game-day organization, clean up, and enforcement, and the creation of a procedural guide in case of future challenges.

The new master plan is in the early stages of discussion, and it has been a major issue on the mind of Kathryn Lookofsky, director of the Athens Downtown Planning Authority. Director Lookofsky has openly engaged with our local papers to discuss the master plan, and is open to opinions from the public. The citizens of Athens should become involved in the process, and they should send Ms. Lookofsky an email at director@downtownathensga.com with questions, comments, or suggestions. There are a lot of questions that cannot be answered at this time, but this is an important topic that needs to be discussed.