That's Not Quite Fair, Billy Blades
It's true that RiverCity & local foundations have been the architects of the Main Street revival, but it's false to state that the Mayor has tried to "claim credit". His public (and much appreciated) support of a number of community efforts in the neighborhood - mainx24, the Southside Habitat House, the Mural unveiling, and Earth Day last year (including his green pledge) to name a few - has been downright generous, magnanimous even, especially given the presence of rather vocal opponents (being one of them myself).
Further, it was a campaign promise of the Mayor that the intersection of Tennessee and St. Elmo avenues be reworked. The project is nearly complete, to the great benefit of the St. Elmo business district. I can't speak for other neighborhoods, but that's something St. Elmo has needed for some time and I'm thankful the Mayor has kept his pledge to see it through to completion.
All that said, does a single project in one neighborhood and the cheerleading of projects in another constitute being "committed to neighborhoods"? That's a question it'd be great for the TFP to tackle i.e. a comprehensive breakdown by neighborhood of all city-funded improvement projects under the current administration.
Tom?
Chattanooga Politics , chattanooga development | By Josiah Roe | 10:46 AM
Comments
While I agree that he has done good on his commitment there, other neighborhoods are going to potentially suffer. (i.e. MLK, Main Street) when/if the Homeless Complex is completed, IMO.
Posted by: Rob at February 16, 2009 11:03 PM
Unfortunately Josiah, your examples is something else on Billy's list that started years ago and got implemented during Ron's term. I have lived in St. Elmo for ten years and the intersection correction budget was put on the books during Corker's tenure. John Van Winkle should be heralded for that project's completion and working beautifully with the business district. Because Ron told him to? I don't believe it.
Ron can not be conspicuously absent from supporting Main Street initiatives. Its the biggest story in Chattanooga and he has little to do with it. He's got to inset himself in the photographs at least.
Peace
MB
Posted by: Mary at February 16, 2009 11:21 PM
