View Calhoun streetscape phases in a larger map

The third phase of a downtown revitalization may begin by mid-summer, according to Downtown Development Authority Director Suzanne Roland.

The Department of Transportation T-grant-funded project will utilize $200,000 in state money, she said, not $250,000 as originally quoted. The city is currently waiting for right-of-way issues to clear before moving forward with the project, she said, but the original concept drawing for this phase has been approved, and it meets state historic preservation guidelines.

Jaeger, the Gainesville-based company that handled the other phases of the revitalization, will work on phase three, as well, according to Eddie Peterson, city administrator.

“Hopefully within the next three months, we’ll be ready to have our construction people come on board,” Roland said.

Mayor Jimmy Palmer said often DOT projects run longer than expected, but that he is grateful to the agency for working with the city council on all phases of the plan.

The phase three area will run from the intersection of Hicks Street and South Wall Street (at City Hall) to BB&T Bank. Improvements will include the demolition of existing sidewalks, new curbing, new streetlamps and new benches and trash receptacles.

“It will match what’s on the other side (of Wall Street)” Roland said.

Peterson said there are no concrete streetscape plans beyond phase three, but that he would like to see a multi-use trail from the west end of the city to its 50-acre park that adjoins the city’s recreation complex.

Palmer echoed Peterson’s thoughts; “we have … more plans for that,” he said of the trails.