The city of Greenville is at a crossroads with regard to our downtown's development. Today, the City Council will vote on whether or not a handful of streets which comprise part of the city's historic street pattern should be closed to make way for growth.

Growth can be fresh and joyous like the first green in springtime, or growth can be scary like the unknown of spreading cancer. Growth in terms of development is usually a double-edged sword. I believe good downtowns are places where all races, creeds and ages can come together to enjoy one another's company — whether that be shopping, learning, working, living or playing. Promoting this type of environment in Greenville is Uptown Greenville's goal.

Dead-ending Washington Street, as currently proposed, does not promote the type of growth or thriving business climate that downtown Greenville needs. Downtown Greenville should not become a conglomeration of large entities (whether they are municipal, educational or religious) that squeeze out the quirky businesses and public spaces that define it.

Please join me in supporting Greenville's downtown by urging City Council to vote no to the street closings at tonight's meeting.

ALBRECHT McLAWHORN

design chair

Uptown Greenville