Reopening Chancery Street shows a glimpse of progress
After being closed for more than four months, the barricades were removed earlier this week and traffic is once again flowing through the heart of downtown McMinnville on Chancery Street.
Now that the street has reopened, it’s done more than alleviate traffic concerns. It’s given many residents their first up-close look at improvements that have been made to Main Street. Judging by the initial glimpse, we can now see there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, not just a bulldozer. The initial glimpse is appealing.
It should be stressed the intersection of Main Street and Chancery Street is far from complete, but there are enough upgrades in place to make a perceptible difference. The traffic signals are have a new look. The street lights have a touch of elegance. The concrete work around the intersection itself also adds distinction.
Those are just a few of the little things that lend proof to the belief downtown will become a beacon of light, a hotbed for activity, once this $5 million renovation project is complete. Main Street can regain its vibrancy. Our downtown can be an area in which we are all proud.
With heavy equipment scattered throughout Main Street and major construction still taking place, reopening Chancery Street is only a small step toward the ultimate goal.
But it’s a step we’re overjoyed to see.