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Join DDA’s talks on reforms

The Alpena Downtown Development Authority is discussing some major changes to the main drag through downtown to increase space for businesses there, and you, dear reader, need to be part of that discussion.

As reporter Steve Schulwitz informed us recently, the DDA board tabled a decision to recommend the closure of 2nd Avenue from Chisholm Street to River Street to allow more space for outdoor dining and retail space. As businesses reopen with the COVID-19 pandemic still well underway, the extra space would allow more social distancing among customers.

But the DDA postponed a final decision after hearing from businesses who had concerns about closing such a major thoroughfare.

But the discussion isn’t over, and the DDA is still considering other options, such as using 2nd Avenue parking spaces for outdoor dining and retail.

DDA officials hope to have something in place by the summer tourist season.

Whatever happens, traveling to and through downtown will be different, and it’s important residents are involved in that discussion.

The DDA and the Alpena Municipal Council, which will make the final decision, need to know how you feel and must take those feelings into consideration.

Get involved, Alpena. Don’t be silent.

(THE ALPENA NEWS)

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