Wednesday, Nov. 05, 2008

Roo Rally caps off ribbon cutting

By Mark Fadden

For Weatherford Telegram

On a picture perfect day, a pair of giant shears sliced through shimmering ribbon, officially opening the new and improved Weatherford Square.

Local government and business leaders were on hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony which marked the completion of the downtown revitalization project.

Mayor Dennis Hooks complimented the cooperative spirit between the numerous players that made the day possible.

"The state transportation enhancement program, or STEP, allowed the city of Weatherford and the Texas Department of Transportation the opportunity to work on this project together," he said. "Mainly we appreciate the citizens of Weatherford and their support during the construction phase of this project and we especially thank the downtown merchants and owners for their patience and cooperation during construction."

The $2.1 million project, which was federally funded with a 20 percent contribution from the city, paid for enhancements that included upgraded sidewalks, landscaping, period lighting and a rock wall that surrounds the traffic circle.

But perhaps the biggest change to the Square has to do with function over form. The parking lots have all been reconfigured to channel traffic in and out of the Square as efficiently as possible.

"At its heart, the revitalization project is a transportation improvement program," said Terry Hughes, Weatherford Director of Transportation and Public Works. "From a traffic point of view, you’ve got a 30 percent improvement in traffic flow. We’ve also improved pedestrian safety with our slow-down areas around the Square."

While Hughes also commented on the outstanding level of patience by the downtown merchants, at least one merchant has yet to see anything but problems.

"The vehicles are still going every which direction around the parking lots," said Von Dunn, manager of Tobacco Lane. "Many people can’t read the signs or even ignore the signs, so they go every direction possible. Plus the wall’s been knocked down four times so far by trucks that can’t make the corner."

But celebration was the order of the day as the varsity football players exploded into the Square after the ribbon cutting to kick-off the Roo Rally.

The event, sponsored by Vick, Carney & Smith, the City of Weatherford and Weatherford National Bank, commemorated the Roos last home game of the season and featured a live classic rock band.

Doyle Lee, CEO of Weatherford National Bank, commented on the need for community support of events such as this one.

"Not only are we proud to be involved in the community, but one of the things that makes our community special is our schools," he said.

As he stood among his hungry peers in line to grab a free hamburger and Coke, varsity running back Cody Stevens said he was excited about the community showing up to support the team.

"I think it’s great that everyone’s out here," he said. "It makes me and everyone else on the team feel a lot of pride to know what the community thinks about us."