The Westfield City Council on October 14 approved an ordinance providing for a $12 million bond issue to finance improvements along Park Street and park facilities and amenities at Simon Moon Park.
Approximately $5.5 million of these funds will go towards the second phase of improvements to Simon Moon Park, scheduled to begin in 2025. These improvements include adding walking trails and infrastructure.
The remaining funds will be used to update the streetscape along Park Street as part of an overall plan for economic development and revitalization of the city’s “quaint core.”
Westfield’s Economic Development Department, Parks Department, and Public Works Department are working together on a streetscape plan for Park Street, which could include improvements to the plaza and the Midland Trace Trail. However, the plan is still in the conceptual stage.
“We’re looking at improvements along Park Street, especially since restaurants have street-facing patios, creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment,” said Economic Development Director Jenelle Fairman. told MPs at the first reading of the parliament. Ordinance September 23rd. “We just had (a designated outdoor refreshment area) downtown. We really want to create an atmosphere where people feel more of a sense of community when they’re on Park Street.”
Fairman said the preliminary plan includes outdoor games, brick paving, enhanced lighting and the relocation of some public amenities to create a welcoming environment to promote pedestrian socialization and enjoyment of Park Street. Said to be included.
“There are a lot of companies that are investing in restaurants along that location, but the reality is the sidewalks and roads are not friendly or welcoming,” Fairman said. “We want it to be a place where you can enjoy your meal from the moment you park your car.”
Fairman said the funds will be used for design and engineering, as well as the purchase of right-of-way and easements. The development schedule and budget for each line have not yet been announced.
The city’s Park & Poplar development is a $164 million mixed-use redevelopment project proposed along the Midland Trace Trail from the Poplar Street/Westfield Boulevard connection to Grand Junction Plaza. The planned development along Park Street aims to establish a central business district for Westfield that includes parking, housing and commercial development.
Park & Poplar will include a boutique hotel, office space, retail space, luxury apartment complexes, and public parking to support local businesses and community events at Grand Junction Plaza.
