Revitalization process heads to West Kirkwood

The Bloomington mayor's office has plans to continue the revitalization of West Kirkwood Ave. in 2003. Mayor John Fernandez unveiled a plan Jan. 14 to designate the area of West Kirkwood between Rogers and Adams Streets as an Economic Revitalization area. \nAccording to a press release, buildings in the area will receive face lifts, and new construction will be encouraged through the relaxing of current zoning codes and the creation of some new ones. New zoning codes will allow for bigger buildings and different uses for spaces available. Also, tax abatements will be applicable for businesses in the area affected.\nThis will be the third phase of an extensive plan to revitalize the Bloomington downtown area. The newest phase will begin in 2003.\nRick Alexander, assistant manager of engineering for the city of Bloomington, met with the project architects, Donahue and Association, and the Citizen's Advisory Council last night to discuss the possible changes. \n"The plan is not a firm plan at this point," Alexander said. \nNathan Hadley, executive assistant for economic development at the mayor's office, said the plan is to revitalize the very high-traffic area. \n"There has not been much development on West Kirkwood for many years," Hadley said. \nThings such as crumbling sidewalks and buckling pavement are just a few of the eyesores that will be cleaned up by the revitalization plan.\nThe Kirkwood plan will invite more retail and specialty stores to the area, which means a boost in commerce and easier access to goods and services for area residents. \n"We hope to establish more traditional settings," Hadley said. \nSuch a setting would include corner stores, office space, restaurants and neighborhood service facilities.\nThe West Kirkwood plan will also include a revival of the original architectural style in some of the older buildings, combined with some new ideas to create a "Neo Traditional" type of environment.