Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2024 03 15

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Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes February 16, 2024 Page 4 of 6 Debra Berklehammer, Louisville resident noted that she was disappointed to hear that there does not seem to be much flexibility from RTD and added that the detour to LaFarge would result in 399 bus trips per week down LaFarge. Tom Rafferty, Louisville resident stated that he was disappointed in the lack of involvement with the residents. He added that he does not support closing the street at the expense of residential quality of life and asked whether a street closure plan could be combined with the Downtown Vision Plan. He also asked whether the surveys referenced by the Downtown Business Association are available to the public and if the EVC has seen all of the surveys. Fred Berklehammer, Louisville resident shared a statement he had received from a restaurant owner in a different part of town that feels downtown restaurants have received more advantages than other restaurants. Mr. Berklehammer wondered what will be the impacts to restaurants outside of the downtown area and noted that the closure may cause access issues. Derek Wood, Louisville resident asked how the City will enforce parking if Main Street is closed. He also noted that the closure would cause additional traffic concerns. He noted that a closure would support the downtown businesses, and asked how the City would support its residents. Mary Dibble, Louisville resident feels that a Main Street closure would be inconsistent with the City's vision. She also noted that increasing traffic is not good for safety. John Leary, Louisville resident commented that the proposed closure does not address any of the problems that are causing restaurants to fail. Mr. Leary also referenced a study finding a low success rate of pedestrian malls. Rick Kron, Downtown Business Association President clarified that the DBA's request is not for a permanent closure but a temporary closure and that the timing and length can and have been revised. He added that the DBA has not done a residential survey for this year's closure request but has in years past. He agreed that downtown needs more vibrancy and needs to be seen as more of a destination. Peter Kraus, restaurant owner in Louisville commented that the costs of running a restaurant are rising. Mr. Kraus added that the most effective way to help restaurants is to unburden costs. Pat Carbone, Louisville resident noted that parking is already challenging will be more difficult with the closure. He added that routing the buses to LaFarge will cause safety issues.