Downtown

By Kevin Romick

What needs to happen in our downtown

The next step will include updating the aging infrastructure. Oakley's Redevelopment Agency (RDA) recently secured a $20 million bond for this purpose. The first infrastructure project from the Redevelopment Bond will be starting construction this summer, which provides for a new storm water line on the north side of Main Street. Without this line, no other new projects would be able to be built east of Norcross Avenue. Other projects include: creating additional parking; a new 4-lane Main Street Realignment that will parallel the railroad tracks and bisect the CentroMart shopping center will do two important things for Downtown: 1) reduce through and truck traffic on Main Street, allowing the street to function as a more intimate pedestrian-oriented commercial environment, and; 2) create an additional street frontage to accommodate downtown businesses more oriented to through-traffic. In a sense, Downtown can get the best of both worlds + an attractive pedestrian-oriented downtown with the high volumes of through traffic and associated visibility.

Beginning in the early 90's, prior to incorporation, and continuing until a few years ago the community participated in downtown revitalization planning. Residents envisioned a Downtown that respects the character of old Oakley, yet projects a vital new community image: Specialty shops, restaurants, cafes, civic facilities, and infill housing will make Downtown a lively place that is a destination throughout the day and into the evening. Safe street crossings, street trees, and pedestrian-oriented street lights and furnishings will encourage residents to make Downtown an important part of daily life.