thing to do.”There’s no hesitation—Bristol will make the investment. Another area where the village is taking decisive action is broadband internet access.As remote work and hybrid models have become more prevalent, reliable high-speed internet is no longer just a luxury; it’s essential. Kerkman explains that the village has been working closely with the county to address this need. “We’ve been meeting with the county—it’s called the broadband coalition or initiative,” he shares, indicating that Bristol is part of a broader effort to ensure all areas have adequate access. ENVISIONING A NEW CENTER Though Bristol may not have the bustling downtown atmosphere of a larger city, its rural charm is undeniably one of its defining traits. However, the village’s leadership is set on creating a central hub to serve as a focal point for residents and visitors, blending practicality with community enhancement. “There’s very limited downtown atmosphere, if you want to call it that,” Farrell admits. “It is a very rural community, a very natural community.” That rural character is part of Bristol’s appeal, but it doesn’t mean the village lacks ambition when it comes to future planning. Farrell describes plans for a new village center—a potential centerpiece for the community that would go beyond just aesthetics. “The village owns land where we hope to locate a new village center type of structure, whether it’s retail, it may include a new municipal building,” he shares. The plan for this new hub extends beyond municipal buildings and retail. As Farrell outlines, it will tie into the broader expansion of Bristol’s recreational spaces. “Around that, as Randy mentioned, Parks and Recreation will be built,” he says. The idea is to seamlessly blend practical infrastructure with places that encourage community gathering and outdoor activity, reinforcing Bristol’s emphasis on quality of life. BRISTOL’S BOOMING GROWTH Bristol is rapidly evolving, earning recognition for 82 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09
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