In this episode of the HWY 331 podcast, we continue our conversation with Anthony Vallée, City Councilman and member of the Transportation Planning Organization. Vallée discusses the importance of:
Zoning Diversity: DeFuniak Springs needs a variety of zones (rural, suburban, and urban) to accommodate different lifestyles. Rural areas offer more freedom but fewer services, while urban areas provide greater access to amenities and infrastructure.
Preserving DeFuniak Springs' Identity: Development should reflect the town's unique character and heritage, avoiding the generic roadside development seen in many other places.
Protecting Property Values: Rules and regulations, while sometimes unpopular, are essential for preserving and even increasing property values.
Community Involvement: Residents need to be active participants in shaping the future of DeFuniak Springs.
Vallée highlights several upcoming projects and initiatives:
Safe Streets for All (SS4A): A grant to develop a safety action plan, allowing the city to address specific safety concerns and apply for funding to fix problems.
Reconnecting Communities: A federal grant focused on improving access along the railroad tracks, impacting areas like Baldwin, downtown, and Dorsey.
Sun Trail Project: A state-funded project to create multi-use paths, potentially connecting DeFuniak Springs to a larger regional trail network.
Trail Town Designation: An effort to establish DeFuniak Springs as a trail town, capitalizing on its proximity to Eglin Air Force Base and other trails.
Veterans Memorial Trail: A proposal to create a network of smaller memorials along the East-West Connector, honoring veterans from all branches.
Complete Streets: An initiative to make Highway 90 more pedestrian-friendly, revitalizing the north side of downtown.
Vallée emphasizes the need for community input and encourages listeners to connect with him through the city website or email to share their ideas and concerns.
So Listen in and Connect with Anthony Vallee.
