Unveiling Design Plans for Multiple City-Owned Properties β Florence Shares Details
In the heart of the city of Florence, exciting changes are afoot as the local authorities unveil their plans for city-owned properties.
The first area under consideration is the Florence Nursery property, which the city acquired after the nursery left. Plans for this site include building a new library, a much-needed addition to the community.
Just a stone's throw away from the Skees Senior Center, residents have expressed a desire for an expansion of the center, with more amenities like outdoor exercise and pickle ball courts.
Moving to the east side of the city, the second area was acquired by the city in the last two years, a 3.5 to 4 acre site, recently cleared by the city. Plans for this space include a dog park, picnic area, and play area, providing a much-needed recreational space for the community.
One of the most historic sites in the city is the church at 21 Girard Street, built in 1870 and housing one of the oldest churches in the city and the first African-American church in the county. The church site has accessibility issues, with a ramp installed on one side, and a historical marker already present. The renovation of the church site will follow a phased approach with a focus on a meeting space.
The plans for the church site also include beautification, historic storyboards, and landscaping, aiming to preserve and celebrate its rich history.
Main Street, however, presents its own challenges. Parking issues are systemic, but vendors have expressed interest in selling produce and crafts on Main Street, resembling Findlay Market, which could help revitalise the area.
Josh Hunt, the City's Chief Administrative Officer, gave an overview of the plans, highlighting the focus on the east side of the city. Federal dollars are available for projects like this, and experts are being targeted to secure these funds.
None of the discussed sites have firm plans yet, but the community is excited about the potential for these developments. The city's vision for these properties promises to bring new life and opportunities to Florence.
