Remarks for Secretary Tippett
Zebulon Downtown Revitalization Project Dedication
Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2005 at 5:30 p.m.
Zebulon
Thank you, Mayor Matheny, for that kind introduction.
I know that everyone is glad to see you here tonight, and I would like to wish you the best as you continue your recovery.
I am pleased to be a part of this wonderful event.
This evening's ceremony marks an important milestone in the future of Zebulon - a town that offers numerous opportunities for growth, community and prosperity.
The Zebulon downtown revitalization project has been in progress for many years, and it is exciting to celebrate the opening of the second phase just in time for the holidays.
As part of the department's mission, we are committed to providing the transportation infrastructure necessary to help communities attract new industry and jobs and boost economic development.
Transportation projects such as this play a critical role in the future economic growth of communities across North Carolina.
NCDOT is proud to help fund the improvements we are celebrating this evening.
Many older residents can remember when the heart of a community was its downtown.
Years ago, a weekend shopping trip would include visits to a downtown clothing shop, hardware store, the local drug store and, of course, lunch at the town diner.
Just as small North Carolina towns once found roots in their downtown districts they will also find their future in the revitalization of those same city blocks.
Downtown districts such as this offer citizens a variety of services within easy walking distance, giving residents alternatives to busy highways and urban sprawl.
And as communities such as Zebulon continue to grow, residents will increasingly seek places to work and shop that are closer to home and reducing their dependence on driving.
By investing in this downtown area today and making it more inviting to residents and visitors, Zebulon is certain to experience continued economic prosperity tomorrow.
Today, visitors to Arendell Street can enjoy new sidewalks, landscaping and improved lighting, which enhances safety in addition to creating a beautiful downtown streetscape.
As people are drawn to Zebulon's downtown area to enjoy these enhancements, the ambiance of the area will also invite them to become a part of this growing community and participate in the economic advancements that are ocurring here.
Such an inviting location is sure to attract many shoppers from across eastern Wake County who prefer Zebulon's community atmosphere to the hustle, bustle and congestion of other large shopping centers.
The opportunities for the community to expand and enhance are infinite, and providing the community with an inviting environment through a refurbished downtown area paves the way for success.
This project also fully demonstrates the importance of state and local partnerships, and I'd like to thank Mayor Matheny and the other local officials present for their ongoing commitment to making the new downtown Zebulon a reality.
I am pleased to learn that future plans call for continuing the revitalization project another three blocks, further enhancing this town's character and charm.
I also want you to rest assured that NCDOT will continue to work to improve Zebulon and other similar communities across the state.
As we consider the transportation needs statewide, we are addressing the challenges faced in small towns, and we will continue to find ways to enhance growth while still preserving the past and planning for the future.
By planning responsibly and working together on projects that will benefit us all, we will certainly bring success and progress to every corner of North Carolina.
This project is already helping to build a brighter future for Zebulon, eastern Wake County and this vibrant region.
Even better, we will be one step closer to fulfilling Governor Easley's vision for One North Carolina, where every community has the resources it needs to prosper and succeed.
Thank you again for inviting me to join you for such as special occasion.