JOHNSTOWN —
Out-of-town drivers can easily roll along the combined stretch of routes 56 and 403, near Johns and Washington streets, and not even realize the heart of Johnstown is only a few yards away.
There are limited signs pointing to nearby attractions. Even well-known landmarks such as the Inclined Plane and Point Stadium can go past in a blur.
So, recently, the city decided to move forward with a $1.7 million revitalizing streetscape plan designed to promote downtown, while making the area safer and more aesthetically pleasing. The work, which will begin in spring 2013, will include the installation of signs for local places of interest, historical markers, information for kayakers and canoe paddlers looking to access the Stonycreek River, walkways, green gardens, lights and trees.
“For visitors coming into town, what we’re going to be able to do through this project is direct them to things in town,” said Johnstown economic development specialist Josh Summits.
Originally, the project was envisioned as a way to improve traffic flow. The corner of the Johns Street intersection with routes 56 and 403 will be rounded in order to enable drivers to make right-hand turns without needing to go the whole way into the highway’s passing lane, as many individuals, especially those in larger vehicles, often do.
Also, when the work is complete, drivers will be able to make left-hand turns from Washington onto the highway, which should help move traffic quickly through the region when large crowds disperse following the Flood City Music Festival, nighttime AAABA National Tournament games and other well-attended events.
“The project itself is really designed to deal with transportation issues, but it deals with safety and quality-of-life issues, too,” said Kairos Design Group owner Craig Bachik, the lead consultant.
The work – made possible thanks to a $50,000 grant from the nonprofit Community Foundation for the Alleghenies, in-kind contributions from the city, and PennDOT funds – will be a small step in making downtown more appealing to visitors and businesses.
“Improving the city is incremental,” said CFA President Mike Kane.
Suppes Ford General Manager Courtney Droz spoke with great enthusiasm about the changes.
“I think this is going to be fantastic,” said Droz. “I think it’s going to be a nice gateway into the city. ... I think it will make people take a second look. It’s also going to fix a very difficult intersection.”
Suppes, a business located on the corner of Johns and Main streets, plans to make some improvements to its own property after the traffic and beautification work is finished.
Local News
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This artist rendering shows a streetscape plan designed to promote downtown Johnstown. Submitted Photo
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Johnstown streetscape set for spring
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