Monday: Open House in downtown Heber; new website available

The open day takes place in the city park. A tent will be set up with five stations where locals can learn about the band shell currently under construction, ideas for the park’s future and Envision Central Heber’s overall plan. City leaders will also explain how tax increases will be invested in the downtown area and present the concept for a pedestrian corridor parallel to Main Street.

City Manager Matt Brower said the event was intended to help answer frequently asked questions about the future of downtown Heber.

“All of it [topics] “We were strategically selected based on the community’s interest in learning more about them, interest or questions or even concerns expressed,” he said.

He said city leaders and planning experts will be on hand to discuss details with community members and answer any questions.

Two open days are planned for Monday: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 to 7:30 p.m

Imagine Central Heber is the city’s overarching plan to make downtown Heber more of a community gathering place. Key aspects of the vision include attracting more small businesses, hosting more events and improving walking and cycling friendliness.

In addition to Monday’s open house, the city released a new website with information about the vision for downtown. It details plans to improve infrastructure and meeting spaces worth nearly $50 million.

Brower said there is no detailed information about the pedestrian corridor on the site because he and other city leaders assume it will emerge on its own.

“It would essentially become a main street corridor,” he said. “Why? Because the Highway 40 corridor is just way too busy and way too loud for us to really achieve the feel of a downtown main street.”

He said the corridor will be planned in collaboration with local property owners and businesses.

Meanwhile, the Heber City Council continues to meet with Wasatch County and school district leaders Get your support for the tax increment financing plan. City leaders hope both entities will approve the plan by the end of the year.