Marietta Area Chamber of Commerce-led beautification project moving forward
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A Chamber-led effort to improve one of Marietta's most visible entry points is officially moving forward.
For the past two years, the Marietta Area Chamber of Commerce (MACC), through its Restore & Thrive Committee, has been working to improve the fencing along Pike Street near Exit 1.
Restore & Thrive is a MACC initiative representing a collaborative effort among nonprofits, city officials and area businesses to strengthen Marietta's economic vitality, preserve its historic character and enhance the experience of everyone who lives in or visits Ohio's first city, according to a press release from the MACC.
The committee's fencing project is now well underway, with removal of the existing fencing beginning in August and installation of the new fence scheduled to follow in September. The project will replace approximately 6,000 linear feet of deteriorated chain-link fencing along the high-visibility corridor near Exit 1, creating a more welcoming and attractive first impression for residents and visitors entering Marietta.
According to the MACC, the existing fence has long been a concern for community leaders. Because a fence is required along the corridor, the project will replace the deteriorated structure rather than simply remove it.
The new design will feature a three-rail, horse-style fence with face boards, selected for its durability, longevity and visual impact. The fence will be installed within the same footprint as the existing fence. Painting will follow installation in the spring, giving the finished project a clean, polished and cohesive appearance at one of the community's primary entrances, according to the press release.
"Pike Street serves as an important corridor for visitors and locals alike and, for many, it is their entrance into Marietta," said Kelsy Eaton, MACC President and CEO. "The entrance into a community creates an important first impression. We are excited that community leaders, businesses, organizations and individuals have come together to make this improvement possible and demonstrate the pride we have in Marietta."
The project is part of a broader effort to enhance communities during the nation's 250th anniversary celebration. Inspired by community improvement projects undertaken during America's Bicentennial, local leaders saw an opportunity to make a lasting investment in one of Marietta's most traveled and visible gateways, according to the MACC.
The approximately $80,000 project has been made possible through a combination of private contributions and local investment, including commitments from businesses, organizations and individuals. The City of Marietta has also provided support for the project, including assistance with the removal of the existing fence.
"This project is more than a fence. It's a way to showcase our city and local businesses to the hundreds of thousands of people who drive into and through this area. It will improve the view and reduce vegetation and debris build up that the previous fencing often had," said MACC board chair, Jennifer Offenberger.
According to the press release, the Marietta Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to support the project as part of its ongoing commitment to community development and economic vitality. For more information about the MACC Restore & Thrive Committee or to learn how to support future projects, visit mariettachamber.com/restore-thrive-committee/.