Neighbors living in Charlottesville's Johnson and Fry's Spring communities had a chance to voice their concerns to city council Thursday night at a special town hall meeting held at Johnson Elementary School. While there were plenty of issues discussed, one stood out among the rest.
Charlottesville Vice-Mayor Holly Edwards stated, "The bottom line was the JPA bridge."
It was the issue that many were eager to discuss at the neighborhood meeting. The discussion focused on the concerns of those living in Charlottesville's Johnson and Fry's Spring neighborhoods.
"One of the big issues that we deal with is traffic. We're a direct line between the county and UVA, so we're constantly battling a lot of cars coming through the neighborhood," said Peter Hedlund, a Fry's Spring resident.
Many say the JPA bridge closure is adding to an already tricky traffic situation and making things tough for neighborhood businesses.
Hedlund stated, "We're concerned about the viability of the businesses there that are being impacted."
"It was clear that the businesses are considered neighbors, as well," said Edwards.
Aside from the bridge closure, a number of other issues were discussed such as the need for safe walking and biking routes, more park land, and improvements to Azalea Park. City council members say they plan to take all of these concerns into account.
Edwards stated, "It's an opportunity for us to be in the community and meeting people where they are."
"We're not afraid to go downtown to make sure our voice is heard, but it's nice that they come out to the neighborhood and give folks who maybe wouldn't go down a chance to ask questions and to state their comments," said Hedlund.
Thursday night marked the sixth meeting in Charlottesville's community discussion series. The next meeting will focus on downtown Charlottesville. It's scheduled for September 8 at CitySpace.
