The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – The city of Covington is moving forward with significant upgrades to the mid city mall parking lot, aiming to enhance downtown livability and support local businesses. This project is part of a broader initiative to revitalize the downtown area and create a more walkable, attractive community.
City Manager Allen Dressler has been at the forefront of this project, which began about a year and a half ago. The plan includes several key improvements to the area.
Currently, crews are pouring new sidewalks around the parking lot. These sidewalks will improve accessibility and aesthetics. While not yet underway, new paving for the parking lot is planned as part of the project.
The upgrades also address drainage issues, ensuring that water from businesses doesn’t flow onto sidewalks. Instead, it will be connected to the storm drain system. The project also involves replacing and upgrading the sewer system, separating stormwater from the sanitary sewer to improve overall infrastructure efficiency.
Each business will have an accessible entrance, making the area more inclusive for all citizens.
To enhance the area’s visual appeal, the plan includes adding decorative fencing at certain points, with planters and flowers. In collaboration with the Town of Clifton Forge and the Chamber of Commerce, new wayfinding signs will be installed to guide visitors to points of interest.
“We’re creating a nice, walkable downtown,” Dressler explained. “The goal is to have a vibrant area where people can enjoy walking around, feel good about their community, and feel safe.”
This upgrade is part of Covington’s efforts to achieve Virginia Main Street Program designation, complementing other improvements like the work done on Maple Avenue and the development of Hotel Collins Park.
While there may be some temporary inconvenience during construction, the long-term benefits are expected to far outweigh any short-term disruptions. The project team is working closely with downtown businesses to minimize impact and ensure cooperation throughout the process.
The Mid City Mall parking lot upgrade is more than just a facelift; it’s a testament to Covington’s commitment to creating a livable, attractive community that residents can take pride in and visitors will want to explore.
Christopher Mentz photos
