Tim Glotzbecker has noticed how popular the nation’s longest covered bridge, just outside of Ashtabula, has become.
People get off I-90, travel to the bridge, get out, look around, take photos. Then they promptly get in their cars, drive back to I-90 and away they go, wallets intact.
We commented during construction of the Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge that this is a golden opportunity to get money-spending tourists into Ashtabula.
Only a couple of stones’ throws from downtown Ashtabula, the bridge would be a perfect catalyst to start improvements to the commercial district.
Picture stores capitalizing on the covered bridge theme, offering souvenirs. Restaurants could offer refreshments. Small boutiques, specialty shops, regular entertainment could be included.
Think how downtown Jamestown, N.Y., capitalizes on Lucille Ball being born there. Look at downtown Gettysburg, reflecting its Civil War history.
Other smaller community downtowns have differentiated themselves from chain malls as well.
But Ashtabula has yet to accept the challenge.
Mike Wayman, Ashtabula Township Park commissioner, said, “We would like to let (tourists) know there are a lot of other things to see in Ashtabula Country. There are 16 other covered bridges and several small museums, wineries and other attractions they don’t know about.”
He sees erecting an informational sign at the overlook parking lot. It would provide bridge statistics and history and point tourists to other attractions.
”We are looking at a real nice sign with brick sidewalks, shrubbery, something that would really stand out,” Wayman said.
Neighbor Glotzbecker and his son donated tables after observing large numbers of families visiting on Sunday afternoons.
Such a vision needs the cooperation of everyone: Government, businesses, industry, individuals.
The Glotzbeckers have shown that community spirit. We hope others will step forward, too.
