<< Back 8/7/02 Input sought on Russ Avenue’s future SMN The Town of Waynesville is taking a close look at future development on Russ Avenue and is seeking citizen input on issues such as beautification, traffic, development issues, problems and needs. Two days of walking tours, focus groups and meetings with experts have been scheduled for Friday, Aug. 16, and Saturday, Aug. 17, to give citizens ample time to gather information, ask questions and share ideas with community leaders. The following is a schedule of events for the two days. Friday, Aug.16: ° 9 a.m. — Meet at the Ingles Parking lot for welcoming and a walking audit of Russ Avenue led by Dan Burden. ° 10 a.m. — A presentation of some of the possible outcomes for the avenue will be held. This meeting is especially geared to local governments, elected and appointed officials, etc. ° Noon — Lunch (sandwiches provided with an RSVP). ° 1 p.m. — Access Management presentation given by NCDOT. ° 2 p.m. — Training on Traffic Calming Saturday, Aug. 17: ° 9 a.m. — Walking Review of Russ Avenue from a pedestrian’s perspective. Begins at Ingles’ parking lot. ° 10 a.m. — Focus Groups: Join citizens of all ages in lively small-group discussions of their hopes, concerns, and dreams for Waynesville and the Russ Avenue area. Explore many ideas and solutions. ° 11 a.m. — Learn from an Expert. Dan Burden will share his experiences in other communities and his ideas for redevelopment so Russ Avenue can become a people-friendly corridor that’s enjoyable and workable for pedestrians, bikes, and vehicles. Learn how Russ Avenue can enhance the natural beauty of the mountain community and still be a viable center for commerce and growth. ° 12:45 p.m. — Lunch (provided by Bi-Lo, Ingles, and Winn Dixie) ° 2 p.m. — Design Tables. Put your ideas on paper. You don’t have to be an artist to express your vision for Russ Avenue. There’s even a special Design Table for kids. ° 6:30 p.m. — Report to the Community. Dan Burden, director of Walkable Communities, a nonprofit corporation, will review the findings and recommendations that resulted from the community’s efforts.and lead a discussion on how to implement the plan. All events will be held at the Waynesville Recreation Center unless otherwise noted. These events are sponsored by the Town of Waynesville and Clyde Savings Bank, with additional support from Bi-Lo, Ingles, and Winn Dixie.