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5 <br />Strategy VI: Expand the economic hub from downtown into side streets, Preston Avenue <br />and West Main <br /> <br /> Mr. Lynch said he would prefer to focus on West Main Street before building any <br />additional parking downtown. <br /> <br /> Dr. Brown noted that the Planning Commission is looking at the current parking <br />free zone downtown. <br /> <br /> Mr. Norris said parking is an issue for people who work downtown. <br /> <br /> Dr. Brown agreed and suggested that be added. <br /> <br /> Ms. Hamilton said she would like to see strategies pursued for Preston Avenue, <br />Cherry Avenue and High Street, and bring business owners in those locations into the <br />discussion. She said there could be better use of river front properties. <br /> <br /> Mr. Norris said that downtown businesses have become more boutiques, and he is <br />concerned about the flavor and economic and cultural accessibility. <br /> <br /> Dr. Brown suggested adding a strategy to promote diversity in downtown <br />businesses. <br /> <br /> Mr. Lynch said he thinks it is important to have the Community Design Center as <br />a partner in the Transit Center. He said the main area is available after hours and other <br />space is also available. He said they would pay rent and their presence would give more <br />assurance that it will be a vibrant space. <br /> <br /> Ms. Hamilton said her previous concern was that she did not want CDC jammed <br />down the Visitors Center’s throat. <br /> <br /> Mr. O’Connell said he has committed to explore the idea with CDC. <br /> <br /> Dr. Brown said he thinks it would be good to explore the idea. <br /> <br />th <br /> Dr. Brown noted that the January 11 work session is being cancelled and those <br />thth <br />topic will be moved to January 30 meeting, with the January 30 topics moved to <br />th <br />February 8. <br /> <br /> The meeting was adjourned. <br /> <br />____________________________ __________________________ <br />President Clerk <br />