Spark group looking to work on town projects

Back in September, Thermopolis was home to a placemaking workshop, from which sprung the work done to improve Bicentennial Park — including a temporary large checkerboard with plans to make the game more permanent.

Of those who attended the placemaking session, eight also went to the Community Builder Leadership Institute in Lander.

Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Meri Ann Rush said from this workshop came the idea of doing a questionnaire for what people like about Thermopolis, what projects should be done in 2019 and what they want the town to be.

During this year’s Oktobrewfest, the questionnaires were available for people to fill out, and of the projects available, 65 people voted for decorative lighting on Broadway in the downtown.

Rush noted the lighting is planned in four phases, including Broadway, Fifth, Arapahoe and Bicentennial Park.

Other project voting results included 55 for more mural projects, 48 for bike lanes, 35 for wayfinding signage and improvements to the Highway 20 corridor.

Rush noted the placemaking and leadership program also helped in developing a new group — Thermopolis Spark! The group, she said has a great start but needs the momentum to keep going.

It was also learned during the placemaking session that there is grant money available for projects, and Rush encourages anyone who wants to get on board with the planning process to call the chamber office at 864-3192.

As for what people love about Thermopolis, answers included the hot springs, local businesses and attractions, safety, friendliness, education, surrounding scenery and closeness of the community.

As for what people want Thermopolis to be, many commented on the size and cleanliness of the town, the variety, availability and hours of the businesses, friendliness of law enforcement, use of the mineral water and embracing what we already have.