1994-07-18 - Laserfiche WebLink

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17 Mr. Lee Danielson, proposed developer of the theater complex and skating fink, stated that he has five children and would like to encourage more families to come downtown, and does not think that the crossing of the mall would endanger pedestrians. Mr. Danielson stressed that Neighborhood Theater, Inc., the Potential leasee of the multi-plex theater proposed, has no intention of putting Vinegar Hill or Jefferson Theaters out of business. A resident of 521 North 1st Street spoke in support of the vehicular crossing, stressing that Main Street is about commerce and the crossing could be restricted to certain types of traffic. Mr. Chris Yellman, of 609 Locust Avenue stated that he felt businesses would be more successful downtown if they had better marketing strategies. Mr. Tony LaBua, owner of Chaps Ice Cream at 223 E. Main Street, stated that he agreed with the need for development downtown but was confused about the advisability of the proposal to allow vehicular crossing. Mr. LaBua urged Council not to rush into a decision on the matter. Mr. Woody Baker, a resident of Keswick, stated that he was distressed with the turnover of businesses on the mall and supported activities that will bring shoppers to the area. Mr. Baker supported the vehicular crossing of the mall. Ms. Beth Golstein, Market Street, questioned whether having a movie theater really helps adjacent businesses. Mr. Mike Williams, a resident and business owner on the mall, noted that there has been no discussion of the cost of allowing vehicular traffic, or who would bear the cost of the construction. Ms. Sibley John, 1804 Chesapeake Street, stated that she works with children and did not think children needed another opportunity to be exposed to violent Hollywood movies. A resident of 218 W. Market Street stated that he did not think the crossing would solve the problem of declining retail businesses and encouraged to City to improve the signage to the mall. As there were no further speakers the public hearing was closed. RESOLUTION: APPRO¥TNG WEST MAIN STREET BRIDGE AGREEMENT Ms. Slaughter made a motion to authorize the City Manager to sign the West Main Street agreement pending successful completion of the design requirements to be discussed at the upcoming meeting of the West Main Street bridge design committee. Mr. Vandever seconded the motion. Rev. Edwards questioned whether concerns of adjacent property owners had been worked out and Ms. Slaughter replied that residents of the adjacent neighborhoods have been involved in the process, though some details still need to be worked out. Rev, Edwards asked that Mr. Maurice Cox write a statement regarding the neighborhood's concerns regarding the bridge. Rev. Edwards also suggested that weed control along the railroad tracks be discussed with Norfolk Southern. The resolution approving the West Main Street bridge agreement was approved, subject to the outcome of the final design committee meeting. BE IT RESOLVED by the council of the City of Charlottesville, Virgirrk~ that the City Manager is hereby authorized to execute on behalf of the City the following document, in form approved by the City Attorney: