Burlington may be opening the door to a community-driven solution for preserving Memorial Auditorium… and 242 Main. Today, Mayor Weinberger was quoted by Molly Walsh in Seven Days’ Off Message blog, “The city will now move forward over the course of 2017 with our original plan for an inclusive, competitive RFP for the Gateway Block that includes a robust public process.” The “Gateway Block” is the area that includes Memorial Auditorium, the old house and motel next door, and the parking lot near Mr. Mikes Pizza. Here’s the link to the column: http://www.sevendaysvt.com/OffMessage/archives/2017/02/02/uvm-trustees-to-consider-an-on-campus-arena

This Save 242 Main petition is now more important — and central to the process — than ever, and 242 Main has a genuine, fighting chance to live triumphantly. It can be prioritized within a call for proposals, because there will be a call for proposals!

You made your statement of support when you signed the petition, but would you help complete the circle and share the petition link so everyone else’s voice can be heard? The link is http://tinyurl.com/Save242Main

Thank you for being there for 242, for having the spirit and confidence to make a statement about what’s right — and necessary for — the City of Burlington to do, and for being the BURNING HEART OF 242 MAIN.

(The photo is of Alex Pond/From The Ground Up performing in honor of 242 Main at Higher Ground on January 21.)