At large: Vicki Hughes

The Central Corridor Project, as it stands, is a document that outlines a vision. Like all visions, there are good parts, bad parts, and parts that are mere speculation.

Phase I of the Master Plan calls for a “10-foot wide, multipurpose trail that will connect City Hall and the Library to other community landmarks; new roadway with added on-street parking; improved access along Sixth Avenue; and significant streetscape enhancements.”

I think the concepts behind improving Sixth Avenue and incorporating the railroad right of way into our infrastructure have merit. A 10-foot walkway will be pleasant, and who doesn't like improved streetscapes?

It is Phase II of the plan where it becomes less realistic and more like, “if you build it, they will come.” It calls for “two major transportation improvements; 50 new urban residential units; more than 15,000 new square feet of restaurant and entertainment uses; more that 15,000 new square feet of ‘Main Street' commercial uses; a 30,000-square-foot urban grocer; and a formal green space and small civic plaza.”

This kind of redevelopment depends far more on the economy than words on a document. This phase also seeks to “prioritize pedestrian accessibility and scale development accordingly”. Frankly, I'm not convinced that Marion is a predominantly pedestrian community.

Phase III is broken into three phases. It is within this phase that the face of downtown Marion begins to change. “Phase 3a will begin a transition from high-intensity downtown Marion into a more office-based corridor area. Pedestrian-scale design will still be emphasized and expected within this sub-area.”

This is where the plan becomes a reality and it is also where the citizens of Marion will undoubtedly be able to vote on these changes as bond issues will need to be put forth and defended. Let the voters speak.

As for other major issues: The city should move ahead with building a new police station. The one that we have now was too small when it was built 20 years ago. We already own the land for a new station.

I promise voters to study the issues as they arise, work with staff to develop a budget that keeps taxes as low as possible and do my best to represent them. More I cannot promise.

Vicki Hughes, Marion resident for 30 years, is the retired director of Ushers Ferry Historic Village. She serves on the Marion Heritage Society board and is secretary of Linn County Crime Stoppers. She has one son, Roger. Comments: vshughes@gmail.com