Business and Relocation Guide 2009 - (Page 27) BUSINESS & ECONOMIC TRENDS Historic Downtown Brainerd Transformation Historic Downtown Brainerd will under go a transformation in 2009 moving forward in infrastructure and back in time to the feeling of a traditional downtown with it’s facad. The last time the downtown area experienced significant enhancement was in 1977. So an improvement project for this area: Front and Laurel Streets from 6th to 8th Streets, alleys between Front and Laurel Streets, 7th Street from Maple to Front Streets. A project three years in the making, that has included public open houses, the formation of a four-faceted Main Street Program, a large amount of work by volunteers, and collaboration with government officials will see earth move this spring. Infrastructure improvement taking place underground include replacement of all of the existing sanitary sewer under Laurel and 7th Streets and both “T” alleys north of Laurel Street. An upgrade of the storm sewers where necessary, saving water treatment capacity and costs, by providing storm sewer and stubs to buildings wherever reasonably possible to permit private property owners to connect their roof drains to the storm sewer instead of the sanitary sewer. Finally, providing watermain access for private property owners who want to renovate their buildings, many of which are 100 years old, with fire sprinkler options. Once these underground changes have been made and the pavement is laid an immediate change to frequenters of business on Front Street will be the flow of two-way traffic, currently a one-way street. In addition to Rendering of complete streetscape for Historic Downtown Brainerd. all streets being two-way traffic, all parking will be diagonal. As with many downtown areas the walking traffic is just as important. The character and image of the pedestrian environment will promote way finding and accessibility, emphasize safety, and enhance a positive commercial image. The importance of these elements to Historic Downtown Brainerd was clearly identified in a survey done in 2007 by nearly 600 people who live, work, or patronize the area when 47% said they would patronize Downtown Brainerd more frequently if there was more catering to pedestrians with benches, bike trails and racks, better sidewalks, green space, etc. Also 44% of people chose “the feeling of a traditional downtown” as being more important than “location/the businesses being close together.” Taking this into consideration, consultants and decision makers for the project have included specific elements such as: historic lighting, paver stone curb bumpouts, seasonal planters, trees, bike loops, trash receptacles, and benches to reinforce the pedestrian atmosphere and promote the year round image as a vibrant and thriving downtown. Visitors to Historic Downtown Brainerd won’t need to wait until the end of construction, projected to be August 2009, to experience a welcoming atmosphere. Area businesses have been working hard to plan monthly events rewarding their patrons this spring and summer. A new website downtownbrainerd.com is also being launch in conjunction with the start of construction to keep everyone informed of the progress, share special deals begin offered by businesses, and identify available space of sale or lease to those wanting to be a part of this historic piece of Brainerd. “This is an investment that will pay dividends for the next 20 years and supports the vision for a vibrant downtown,” said Emily Roragen, Brainerd Main Street Coordinator. “The goal has been to develop a plan that improves the perception of Brainerd's downtown, economic vitality, and property values.” explorebrainerdlakes.com 27 http://www.downtownbrainerd.com http://www.downtownbrainerd.com http://www.explorebrainerdlakes.com/
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