Downtown revitalization projects prioritized ahead of Folk Festival
Salisbury is on the eve of the Folk Festival. And as the event has gotten closer locals have noticed more and more work being done, all in an effort to show off everything the city has to offer.
Most people we spoke to are most pleased with the beautification efforts.
“By getting rid of some unsightly stuff. Burying lines, putting up nice light poles, new parking curb into it. We’ve got the new amphitheater going on now,” said Salisbury resident Paul Curtis.
“I’ve seen a lot of work on sidewalks, improving on sidewalks, and the paintings and wrapping the garage,” said Salisbury resident Debra Clark.
Other recent projects include new downtown sidewalks, revitalizing the riverwalk, the brand new amphitheater, and a freshly painted downtown parking garage.
The state has been a big partner in these projects, with $500,000 being allocated for the amphitheater.
Mayor Day tells us all of these projects were in the works, but the Folk Festival gave the city incentive to get things done.
“What the Folk Festival has taught us is, by having a big event, by having a deadline, by getting to show off your city to the world, it’s a real opportunity to say hey let’s get this done,” said Day.
Downtown has seen quite a few improvements in the last few weeks and months in the lead-up to the Folk Festival, and we’re told there are quite a few other projects still to come in the next few years, both due to city dollars, and private sector investment.
“The Beer Garden, you’ll see an announcement about that soon, and some construction activity over there. Lot 16, you’ll see apartment construction hopefully beginning next year,” said Day. “You’ll see some announcements here soon about lot one, parking lot 30, which is over by, near Brew River, the marina landing project right next to Brew River.”
Another benefit to the recent efforts is the interest being shown from the private sector.
“I think as the city continues to invest in itself, then you’ll see outside entities want to come in and invest into the city,” said Curtis.
Day tells us the private sector has spent significantly more in city construction recently than the city itself has invested.
Wednesday night at the Civic Center, at a volunteer sign up event, we’re told the city filled out the 2,200 volunteer spots needed for the Folk Festival.
