Ringgold Downtown Partners wants to work alongside the city of Ringgold to improve Cleburne Street.
“We would like to revitalize Cleburne Street to make it vibrant along with the Ringgold Depot,” Ringgold Downtown Partners president Raye Brooks told the Ringgold City Council May 24. “We would like to have sensational weekend events.”
Partners design committee member Radonna Parrish said the RDP is ready to begin planning a revamp of Cleburne Street, which runs parallel to Nashville Street connecting to the Ringgold Depot.
“Our vision is to create a venue for outdoor community events and opportunities for downtown businesses to thrive,” said Parrish. “We could host street dances, farmer’s markets, art shows and festivals. We want to get people to come to downtown Ringgold.”
The proposal calls for Cleburne Street to be one-way from Tennessee Street toward the Ringgold Depot.
Ross Andrews, of Architect Inc., said he designed a setback for rear entrance upgrades along Cleburne Street.
“It will enhance safety by making Cleburne Street one-way and organizing the street with angled parking,” said Andrews. “The idea is to be able to close Cleburne Street for events. You could have canopies and historic street lamps to make it a nice space.”
Andrews said he designed five feet of transition space between the rear of the building and the sidewalk.
“It will take professional surveying and drawings to get it put in place,” said Andrews. “It’s just a concept.”
Brooks said she would like to see garbage cans covered and the backs of businesses along Cleburne Street spruced up.
Mayor Joe Barger said that Andrews’ drawing is an economical and reasonable approach to make the street look good. However, Barger is concerned about water runoff there.
“We need to handle the water problem and put in a sidewalk someway that is workable,” said Barger. “We are willing to work with you on something for Cleburne Street.”
Parrish said the RDP and the city could find grant money for the project. Parrish would like to get started by renovating building facades and adding awnings.
“We hope to become a better hometown,” said Parrish. “A vibrant downtown helps everyone. Property owners increase occupancy rates, rent and property values. Local businesses benefit from increased sales, an improved image, a stronger business mix and increased visibility.”
The next regularly scheduled Ringgold City Council meeting will be June 14 at 7 p.m.