One option is to replace angle parking along SE 1st Avenue with parallel parking. This would reduce the number of parking spaces but preserve the Live Oaks. The sidewalk would be relocated between the new spaces and the trees. The existing storm water system would need to be modified. This option is anticipated to cost approximately $500,000 to complete the work on both SE 1st Avenue and SE 1st Street.
A second option is to modify the outdoor cafes at four downtown businesses where the trees are narrowing sidewalk access. This would require the City to work with business owners, at their expense, to significantly alter the exterior features of their buildings. This could impact historic structures. For instance, the building that currently houses Harry’s was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1994. It was previously home to the Cox Furniture Store. It has been known as the Simonson Opera House, Edwards Opera House and New Baird Theater.
