Restoration workshop stresses vision

By Howell Dennis

CITY EDITOR

CROWLEY – Downtown business owners, local officials, and curious citizens packed the Wells Fargo building Wednesday afternoon to attend the initial workshop to
assist in planning the Historic Parkerson Avenue Redevelopment Project.

Rita Johnson, Main St. manager, introduced Valerie Gaumont, Certified Local Government Coordinator for the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism to those in attendance. The first session was designed to work on a “vision plan” for the project which she wanted to design with help from community leaders.

Upon asking those in attendance what they would like to see the project accomplish she had several responses.

“I would like to see Crowley become more diverse, not only drawing more Crowley residents, but those from surrounding communities as well,” said Kayla Link, President of the Crowley Chamber of Commerce.

“Less empty buildings and more businesses,” added Dr. Ezora Proctor.

Mark Miller, owner of Modern Music on Parkerson Ave., expressed concern about whether the sidewalk work would hinder the grand opening of the Opera House which is tentatively scheduled for September. He was assured that it would not be a problem.

Other concerns included ensuring the safety of the area and making it more attractive to young people.

Gaumont pushed for a four point program which would require the input of four separate committees: promotion, design, economic, and organization.

The committees will continue their work today beginning at 8 a.m. in the Wells Fargo building.

“I think everybody knows how excited I am about this project as are most of the people in here,” added Link.