Minutes 05/25/1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

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TUESDAY, MAY 25, 1999 project, and that the start of construction was hoped to be spring of 2000. Mayor Crabtree commented that the Virginia Creeper Trail in Abingdon, Virginia, also a linear park concept, has been very successful, and Council Member Haskell noted the success of the New River Trail as well. Council Member Roop asked if the rail trail would be connected to the existing roadway in the area, and was told that it would run parallel to it. Council Member Dallas asked if consideration had been given to locating a train car on the site of the trail, saying that Norfolk Southern Railroad might be willing to donate a car. Council Member Haskell added that the Railroad had parked a dining car in Richmond in a manner such as that suggested. Mr. Whitlow noted that the planning process for the trail had included such a concept, and this would be kept in mind. He also noted that the number one desire expressed by the public in the parks planning process had been walking areas, and the rail trail would serve this purpose. Mr. Whitlow also pointed out that the Martinsvitle Rail Trail would be unique among such trails, as other such trails had a singular recreation focus. Martinsville's trail, he stated would provide what had been termed "edutainment", as termed by Mr. David Reeves, former Development Specialist with the Community Development Department. Mayor Crabtree added that the project would contribute strongly to the health and vitality of the Main Street side of the Uptown area. Council Member Haskell agreed, stating that it was a very exciting project. Mr. Whitlow closed by stating that additional phases and enhancements to the project could now be considered. Council Member Dallas then asked Mr. Whitlow if the Railroad had given the City the cross ties that were being pulled up on the rail path. Mr. Whitlow responded that the ties might become the City' s property, but that he was reluctant to give them away as they might be needed for the project. In addition, he stated, the City had not yet received the deed to the property. Council Member Dallas expressed his desire that the City be able to give one or two cross ties to residents that request them, if possible. Mayor Crabtree then noted that the rail trail project might well satisfy the '?ost Card Test" that he had seen in a recent handout from the Wealth of Cities - New Urbanism. Concerning another budget issue, Council Member Dallas commented on the use of a $220,000 rate rebate ~ received from American Electric Power, stating that he would like to the see the funds