Jul 14, 2002 By Patty Shultz 2 min read

CONNELLSVILLE – City officials are seeking input from local business owners on how to spur development and public interest in the downtown area. Councilwoman Judy Keller said she is hopeful that the proprietors will take an interest in the ongoing revitalization plan, which, among other things, outlines the future use of parking lots.

A discussion of the topics is planned for Thursday at 7 p.m. at the municipal building.

“We want their ideas,” Keller said. “We want them to help us determine how to operate the parking lots utilized by their patrons.”

Keller said revitalization plans for the business district are under way, but a joint effort with the business community is important for it to be a success.

“We have to work together,” she said.

The nine lots are metered, with those parking at the sites paying 25 cents an hour.

Keller said the fees are used to defray maintenance and liability insurance costs in addition to payroll costs for a daily attendant.

“There’s no question that the lots must generate an income,” she said.

“Right now, the lot next to Fayette Realty has several potholes that must be repaired.”

Keller has issued about 25 letters to businesses along East and West Crawford avenues, North and South Pittsburgh streets and those within the proximity of the city-owned parking lots, requesting the owners or a representative to attend the session.

With several businesses relocating outside the downtown area or closing their sites permanently over the past year, Keller said it is vital that city officials address the matter.

“We need to make the downtown more consumer friendly. We need to spur budding entrepreneurs and help our current businesses,” she said.