Downtown Redmond needs a makeover.

Right now, downtown — the area adjacent to the Redmond Town Center — lacks continuity with its layout and traffic flow. It’s not that pedestrian friendly. Parking is at a premium. And the nightlife is begging for a pick-me-up.

But the city plans to change all of this and turn downtown Redmond into a prime destination.

Redmond, the home of Microsoft, is more known as a technology hotbed than a city with a desirable downtown. The Redmond Town Center is also a city signature spot. While both are crucial to the well-being of our city, a new-look, bustling downtown would only add to Redmond’s quality of living.

Mayor John Marchione took the first steps toward his goal of revitalizing downtown when the city unveiled preliminary plans of its new downtown vision to the residents last week.

Phase one of the project begins this August and continues through next summer. The city plans to create a new “gateway” to downtown between Redmond Way to Leary Way. Much to the approval of local business owners, there will be lanes going in each direction with a center turn lane. There will be on-street parking and wider sidewalks for pedestrians and shoppers.

This sounds like a step in the right direction.

Complete plans are detailed in our news story on page three.

One of Marchione’s main campaign platforms was revitalizing downtown. Now, it’s important for citizens to get involved in the ongoing decision-making process, so we make sure the mayor and the city delivers.

It’s vital that Redmond, which has a nice cross-section of booming businesses and plush parks, develops a strong, unique downtown identity.

This is an exciting time for Redmond.

So don’t just sit on your hands during the planning process. Voice your opinion.

The future of downtown Redmond depends on it.

Questions or suggestions can be directed to jjustice@redmond.gov, jpfundt@redmond.gov, (425) 556-2887 or (425) 556-2750.