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Public can have say on Main Street

DALLAS -- Want to have a say in the future appearance of Dallas' Main Street?

Jolene Guzman

August 07, 2012

DALLAS -- Want to have a say in the future appearance of Dallas' Main Street?

The Dallas Urban Renewal District is asking for public input on its most ambitious Streetscape project yet: the 800 and 900 blocks of Main Street.

The district's advisory committee has three possible plans to consider for rejuvenating the two-block stretch, plus additional options for the Polk County Courthouse block, and is asking residents to offer their opinions.

A survey is available on the city's website at www.ci.dallas.or.us. The survey includes plan drawings and space for people to comment on what they like and don't like about each option. Survey takers will be asked to vote for their favorite of the three plans.

The agency had a booth at Summerfest, where more than 60 people filled out the survey. It's hoping for more feedback.

"This is part of public involvement for this project," said Dallas Community Development Director Jason Locke. "This is going to have a big impact."

The project will be similar to those on Mill and Court streets completed over the last three summers, only larger in scope. Construction likely will begin after Summerfest 2013.

The first option adds the least amount of elements, with no trees planted on the courthouse side, added lighting and street furniture, and midblock planters with trees.

The second option adds trees on either side of the courthouse entrance, more smaller, evenly spaced trees on the opposite block, and street lights with space for banners.

The last option would combine midblock planters with space for public art, street furniture on the courthouse side of the block, and alternating lighting.

Locke said the project will widen the sidewalks on the stretch and narrow the travel lanes, an element the district worked with the Oregon Department of Transportation to approve.

Funding for the project will be provided through the urban renewal district, which incorporates the downtown area and was approved in 2005. Financing is provided through taxes collected on properties within the district and can only be used for improvements inside district boundaries.

Locke said the district will hold meetings with affected business owners and is planning an open house.

In the meantime, the survey will be on the city's website until mid-September.

For more information: 503-831-3565.