Video Story
Watch VideoNevada Ave. renewal
Story By: Abby Lane
Source: KOAA
Published Tue Apr 29, 2008, 06:03 PM MDT
Updated Tue Apr 29, 2008, 08:59 PM MDT
The stretch of South Nevada between I-25 and Cheyenne Rd. known for being rough may soon get a face-lift.
Councilman Jerry Heimlicher was recently approached by several local business owners who are fed up. They want help cleaning up the neighborhood.
“They're not asking for money, just support,” said Heimlicher.
He and some of the business owners now attend monthly meetings to figure out how to address the problems. They set up a non-profit. Their first order of business is decreasing crime.
“We're going to make it so uncomfortable to break the law in this part of town that they'll either clean it up or get out,” he said.
Next, they'll develop a plan. Residents, businesses, developers and city and county leaders will all be involved. Then they will apply for Urban Renewal designation and Enterprise Zone status.
“This is not an effort for us to bulldoze all of these businesses and put up new businesses,” he said. “This is an effort to support these businesses with the right kind of law enforcement and the right kind of idea for a grand plan.”
Some business owners say it's about time, but things are moving too slowly.
“This is our livelihood and we want it turned around and make it better for everyone,” said Lynne Karnes, owner of Continental Cleaners on S. Nevada.
