City lawmakers are moving ahead with plans to build a new street to better connect parts of Suffolk’s historic downtown.

On Wednesday, the Suffolk City Council voted unanimously to move ahead with plans to condemn property in the 100 block of South Main Street. Once the city acquires the land owned by local accountant Frank Sheffer, plans are to build a connector street linking South Main and Commerce streets.

Sheffer has refused the city’s $105,000 offer for the property.

The city’s proposal won the support of several downtown property owners who believe more connecting streets could make downtown a safer, more viable business district.

John Brown, who owns three buildings on North Main and East Washington streets, believes the proposed road project will be an asset to attracting businesses to his two East Washington buildings, the Washington Street Center and the former Buy-Rite furniture store building.

Brown recently donated right-of-way behind his two buildings to make the new street possible.

&uot;Most people leasing property want window space,&uot; Brown said. &uot;This will be an opportunity for both of my buildings on East Washington to have two storefronts.&uot;

Mike Williams, co-owner Baron’s Pub on North Main Street, said the new project will enhance business at the new Italian eatery he and partner Vance McGhee are opening at the intersection of Commerce and East Washington streets later this summer.

&uot;I think it’s a great idea,&uot; Williams said. &uot;It is positive for us…it will bring more traffic around to our new restaurant.&uot;

The new street will provide much needed accessibility to the South Main Street business district, said Bill Dodson, a local dental surgeon and downtown property owner. He recently sold his building at 136 S. Main St. to two entrepreneurs planning to open a jazz club this summer.

&uot;We definitely need more visibility in this area,&uot; Dodson said. &uot;It’s difficult to develop because it is so inaccessible.&uot;

Andy Damiani, a former mayor and council member, also supported the proposal. He said the increased connectivity between streets has been a problem in the city for years.

&uot;The roads in Suffolk were designed long before the automobile was factored in the street planning process,&uot; said Damiani.

&uot;Nobody likes condemnation, but when it comes to public roads, it is incumbent on you to act,&uot; he said.

&uot;It is part of your obligation as city leaders.&uot;

allison.williams@suffolknewsherald.com