Politics & Government

How Can Clayton Retain its Vibrant Downtown? Mayoral Candidates Respond

Is downtown Clayton pedestrian-friendly? Does it have the right mix of businesses?

What does Clayton need to do to promote a vibrant downtown? Does it have the right blend of corporate headquarters, local businesses and restaurants?

The candidates for mayor of Clayton in the April 2013 election were asked these questions during a public debate on March 14 at the Clayton High School auditorium.

Ward 2 Alderwoman Michelle Harris said the city needs to encourage higher density residential areas to put more foot traffic in downtown Clayton and to promote buying local.

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Former alderman Harold Sanger agreed the city needs more people on the street to support the retailers, and that Clayton needs to redo its downtown to be more pedestrian-friendly.

Ward 3 Alderman Alex Berger III said there are opportunities along Forsyth and Maryland avenues that could be developed. He said the city needs to invest in branding and promoting local businesses.

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Each candidate's answer is recorded in the video that accompanies this article.

What do you think? What would bring more traffic to Clayton's downtown sidewalks? Does Clayton have the right mix of restaurants and corporate and local businesses? Share your ideas below.


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