Are downtown parking spaces more valuable than a vibrant downtown? Some business owners voiced objections to losing parking spaces and other complaints as the Scotts Bluff City council considers a plan to expand a downtown park into a plaza during its April 6 meeting.
I have to admit that I was caught a off-guard by the number of naysayers at the meeting. I expected some opposition to the purchase of two properties, located at 23 E. 18th St. and 15 E. 18th St. When the city sets out to make about half a million dollars in property, you can expect some people opposed to the idea because of the price tag.
Annie Folck, city planner, gave a brief overview of the project, explaining that purchasing the two downtown lots would allow the city to acquire a full acre of land in the downtown. Initial ideas floated include an indoor/outdoor playground area, offering public bathrooms and amenities, such as a skating pond, fire pits and a stage for performances.
Downtown Scottsbluff Plaza
Moderators: Coyote, nebugeater, Brad, Omaha Cowboy, BRoss
Downtown Scottsbluff Plaza
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