Business View Civil and Municipal | Volume 2, Issue 6

37 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 2, ISSUE 6 OPEL I KA , ALABAMA the challenges that COVID brought about. I don’t know many communities that could speak that well for their merchants who’ve made it work during that COVID downturn.” In terms of infrastructure upgrades, Opelika is working to improve sidewalks, promoting multimodal, active transportation within the community. The city has also invested $2 million in sidewalk repairs, and to upgrade those that do not meet current ADA requirements. Part of a plan to make all sidewalks and public facilities accessible for everyone. “No one made us do the ADA compliance,” says Mayor Fuller. “That’s something we decided we needed to do. We coffee shops, a lot of unique restaurants – anything from high end to burgers and wings. It’s really become a Friday and Saturday night downtown. You used to find a parking place anytime, but lately when I’ve gone down on the weekends, it’s getting tough to find a parking place. It’s packed. It’s an entertainment district. People can come and walk around, eat, grab a beer, and just enjoy downtown with their family and friends.” During the pandemic, only one business closed in downtown Opelika, while several new, small enterprises launched. Huguley acknowledges, “Our merchants were able to really pivot with