The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan

Peru – By the end of 2017, Peru’s primary artery should have a better appearance and physical upgrades thanks to a resolution passed at the Peru Town Board’s December 21, 2015 meeting. The Board approved a $49,000 consulting contract with River Street Planning and Development to review Main Street and its environs, dialogue with local businesses and residents and recommend improvements. The consultant’s cost and up to $150,000 in Main Street improvements will be financed by a NYS Department of State Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Grant The town has already satisfied matching fund requirements thanks to the 2014 upgrades to the Town Hall entrance and nearby sidewalks.

The Town Board formed a Main Street Plan Committee in the summer of 2014 when a $25,000 grant was received. Grant Writer and Committee Chair Adele Douglas explained, “The idea started as a means of improving the Sullivan Park and Heyworth/Mason ends of the Walking Trail. Improving sidewalks and installing bike paths have been mentioned as possible projects.” Ideas were sought from Main Street and Bear Swamp Road businesses; however, the grant required hiring a consultant delaying any forward movement. Now that a consultant has been hired, more ideas will be sought and the committee’s work will continue.