AGENDA CAPTION:
Title
SNC-16-01 (Kissing Alley) Hold a public hearing and consider a request initiated by the City as recommended by the San Marcos Main Street Program to name the alley located north of the Historic Hays County Courthouse between East Hopkins Street and University Drive “Kissing Alley”. (W. Parrish)
Body
Meeting date: January 24, 2017
Department: Planning and Development Services
Funds Required: NA
Account Number: NA
Funds Available: NA
Account Name: NA
CITY COUNCIL GOAL: Beautify and Enhance the Quality of Place
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ELEMENT(s): NA
BACKGROUND:
This agenda item seeks a recommendation from the Commission regarding a request by the City to name an alley located north of the Hays County Courthouse “Kissing Alley” as it has been colloquially known for several years. The location of the alley is depicted on the attached map.
The Main Street Advisory Board enacted a vision statement on July 13, 2016 “to foster a downtown that is a unique and culturally vibrant destination, where local businesses thrive and people of all ages can connect, create and celebrate.” The Kissing Alley project began in 2013 and has been used for downtown activities such as Park(ing) Day, weddings, and live music events for several Main Street events. Kissing Alley is viewed as a placemaking opportunity for Downtown San Marcos.
In addition to activating the alley, public and private improvements have been made to create a unique, safe and more attractive downtown space including a mural and permanent over-the-road lighting. These improvements and official naming of the alley help accomplish goals set for 2017 including: 1) additional street and safety amenities; 2) awareness of Kissing Alley; and 3) incorporating more music and art in public places.
Staff has reviewed the request and recommends approval as submitted.