Editorial: EARD means business
Editor/Publisher
When groups are formed and plans are made to carry out a project of significant proportion there are always skeptics.
There are always those who condemn projects before they are ever started, but once the project is complete they always seem to find their seat on the “success bandwagon.”
I try not to be one of those people, but I have to admit I was skeptical when talks began concerning reviving downtown Phenix City and riverfront redevelopment. Even as meetings were held and plans progressed, I still had my doubts; however, those doubts were extinguished after I attended the last meeting of the East Alabama Riverfront Development group.
Members of EARD met with the Boulevard Group last week to continue the planning of riverfront development. I have to admit I left the meeting with a broader understanding of the project and the sense that this project was really going somewhere.
The meeting was a no-nonsense one, and taking care of business was a top priority. The people who offered to put their efforts into the development of the riverfront did not take the pledge lightly.
EARD President Sammy Howard said he was excited that riverfront redevelopment seems to be moving forward. He also said the members of EARD knew from the beginning that this project would not be an easy one nor would it happen overnight. He was right, but so far the members are in it for the long haul.
I wish I could find the words in this space to make the people of Phenix City understand the significance of this project and that it is on the road to success. Never have I seen a group of more dedicated people who will stop at nothing to see this project through to the end.
Still skeptical? I’m not. Now is the time to get on board and support this project because the seats are filling fast.
E-mail Amy Overton at Aoverton@phenixcitizen.com.