182 Corridor charette
Thursday evening I attended the charette discussing proposals of a brighter future for the 182 Corridor. I was pleasantly surprised by Starkville’s large turnout of public officials, business owners and concerned citizens. In addition, the professionals and students handling the presentation had several interesting ideas and I certainly appreciated them mentioning my business as one of the positives in the area.
Another positive I would like to mention are my friends and neighbors, Raj and Sapna Patel, owners of the Red Roof Inn. The charette team was not aware of the significant investment they’ve recently made in their property, or I am certain they would have mentioned it.
Franchise costs, roofs on both buildings, plus new windows, doors, paint, interior walls, furniture, mattresses, wood floors, bathroom tile and televisions do not come cheaply. Just driving down Hwy 182 it appears to me that they are spearheading positive changes.
This time last year when it was operating as the Regal Inn the rooms were often vacant and the clientele was much different. Now with 50 rooms and five suites almost always full of working travelers and tourists, the Red Roof Inn is helping Starkville businesses and our tax base. I want to publicly thank Raj and Sapna and hope our city leaders do as well.
Dave Hood
Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern
Starkville
PS: In a plea to our aldermen, please approve a sidewalk and lighting from University Drive to 182 down Old West Point Road. Residents escaping the Cotton District generate significant foot traffic to Rick’s Cafe as well as my tavern and you could make them much safer
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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