U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross—joined by Mayor Ken Marshburn, Council Members Demian Dellinger, Kathy Behringer and Elmo Vance, and Aristotle Spirits owner Jake Howland—on July 22 announced $1,030,405 in funding for a comprehensive rehabilitation of the Main Street-Rand Mill Road intersection as well as the creation of 59 new paved parking spots in Downtown Garner. Rep. Ross secured funding for the project earlier this year.
The federal funds will be used to develop a pedestrian plaza and sidewalk and improve stormwater drainage to prevent flooding. The new parking lot will transform an underutilized property into a productive asset, increasing accessibility and capacity for residents and visitors to enjoy restaurants, shops and more.
Between fiscal years 2009 and 2021 (the most recent available data), there was $23.1 million in public investment and $11.5 million in private investment in Downtown Garner.