Parking garage good for Meridian

By Staff
Feb.3, 2002
In the not too distant future, the sounds of more construction in downtown Meridian will serve as another indication that ours is a city on the move. Three preliminary designs for a $7 million parking garage associated with renovation of the Grand Opera House, Marks-Rothenberg Building and development of the Riley Education and Performing Arts Center are now being studied, and after a final selection is made, construction will begin later this year.
City officials and architects unveiled three proposals last week, all of which have appealing features. This may be a difficult choice to make, but giving the public an opportunity to see and comment on the proposals is a very positive step. As a service to our readers, the first of the design proposals appears on page A3 of today's newspaper. The second and third will be published on Monday and Tuesday so readers may become more familiar with the project.
Redevelopment efforts in downtown Meridian will become even more visible when actual construction begins on the parking garage and other projects in the works. Coupled with the announced residential development by Cooper Communities, these revitalization efforts will help lead Meridian to a brighter future and improved quality of life for its residents.