Neil Garner:

1.  Historically the Trolley District was Ogden’s primary residential community.  The neighborhood was connected to downtown via a series of streetcars that ran East-West along 21st, 23rd, 25th, and 27th streets, and the synergy between the neighborhood and the downtown resulted in a vibrant City overall.  What role do you feel the revitalization of the Trolley District plays in the overall revitalization of the City of Ogden?  How would you support community efforts to promote and enhance the Trolley District?

 I think the revitailization plays a major role. I believe that we need to support efforts that will provide opportunities for residents and visitors to see and enjoy the beautiful history of Ogden.Revitialization of the trolley district is an exciting step in helping others know and enjoy the history of Ogden.  Being raised in Ogden and having fond memories of spending time in downtown Ogden I know that we can make a differnece if we plan accordingly. I believe that we need to promote events that draw visitors to the area and work with the merchants and home owners in the area to soilcit their ideas and encourage their involvement on planning and promoting this area. I believe if more citizens can cathch the vision they will see that we truly have a unique opportunity to develop and promote this wonderful jewel.

2.  Currently Ogden City, in cooperation with UTA, UDOT, and other stakeholders, is undertaking a formal study of alternative alignments for an improved transit system (probably a streetcar) between downtown and WSU.  Some of the proposed alignments would pass through the heart of the Trolley District and then continue south along Harrison Blvd., while other options would go south along Washington and then east on 30th or 36th, bypassing most of the historic Trolley District.  What are your views on the trade-offs among the various alignments?  Given the trade-offs and challenges, do you have a preference at this time?

My preference is to utilize the city streets imaintained by the city, 30th and 36th are maintained by the state. I would promote the Trolley District area and encourage plans to utilize these streets as the route of choice that the streetcars should use and promote the historical ambiance. It would be a shame to not encourage others to see this beautiful area.

3.  Also relating to transportation issues, UDOT’s current long-range transportation plan calls for the expansion of Harrison Boulevard to 7-lanes.  How do you think such expansion would impact communities along Harrison, including the Trolley District? I think this would have a major impact, it would displace many homeowners and businesses, it would affect the area around Ogden High school and in my opnion the safety factors will need to be researched extensivley.

Would you be an advocate for area neighbors in generating more sustainable and equitable solutions for Harrison?  yes, the neighbors opnions and concerns need to be addressed and the State needs to be able to properly assure that negative consequences are minimized.

How would you approach the issue with the community and the associated public agencies?

I would promote open communication and discussion on options. The State and other agencies needs to facilitate working with the citizens on developing plans that assure that the citizens needs are met including safety concerns and rights of the property owners.

4.  Are there any other current issues that you think may have lasting impacts on the Trolley District, that area residents should be aware of?

Yes, the safety of the neighborhood. I would encourage a postive working relationship with our law enforcement agencies. Including gang awareness, crime reducation efforts, ways to promote safety. I would also support efforts that encourage home revitilazation and owner occupied  home ownership