Streetscape Project will promote tourism in Auburn

For too long, Auburn has been a stop-off on the way to someplace better.Thousands pass through on Interstate 80 and Highway 49 daily, but not much has made them want to stay.The city plans to change all that with the ambitious new Streetscape Project.Now in its conceptual stage, the project would connect Old Town and Downtown Auburn with elements including trees, lighting, art and paving.City leaders are doing the right thing to ensure that Auburn's Downtown and Old Town business districts don't become fading lights in the foothills.With Auburn's sales-tax revenue slipping "down the hill" to Roseville and out of the city limits to big-box stores north of Auburn, Auburn must strive to retain some of these dollars to continue and enhance our quality of life.But Auburn hardly encourages people to stop here.Signage is confusing and streets difficult to navigate for those not accustomed to Auburn.Sidewalks aren't pedestrian friendly and sometimes become tripping hazards. Business fronts and don't make for attractive surroundings.With an expanded base, Auburn's Urban Development Authority now has the muscle to make a real change in Auburn.With conceptual designs from Rocklin-based planning and consulting firm Foothill Associates, locals can now envision for the first time what some of these improvements might mean for our community.It means banner signs heralding visitor's entrance into shopping districts. It means landscaped medians that both beautify and control the speed of traffic. It means bigger and easier-to-follow signs guiding motorists into town.It means revamped business facades that capture Auburn's true small-town spirit.It means more money for local businesses and more money for the city of Auburn for public safety and services.The makeover will create an Auburn that tourists will not only want to visit and shop but an Auburn citizens will be proud to call home.