The City of Springfield, Mo., discussed ideas Wednesday on how to revitalize College Street west of downtown, which also served as the original Route 66.
KSPR-TV filed this good video report:
One person voiced concerns that are on the minds of many roadies. According to the Springfield News-Leader:
Route 66 Association of Missouri President Tommy Pike was worried about changing the street’s historic character.
Referring to comments planners solicited about what to do with the street, Pike expressed concern.
“When I see ‘widen it’ and ‘bulldoze it,’ that’s why I’m here,” Pike said.
I’m going to withhold judgment until I see what’s proposed. But I think Pike’s concerns are well-founded, given the long and inglorious history of “redevelopment.” An area can be revitalized without wrecking balls. In fact, keeping historic structures would actually add more character.