MANSFIELD, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Mansfield Mayor Jodie Perry discussed ongoing city projects, infrastructure improvements, and future growth plans during a recent appearance on the “Community Spotlight” segment with Randy Bigley.

Perry, who has been in office for 14 months, described her tenure as “busy” and filled with opportunities to “make change.” She highlighted the city’s focus on growth, infrastructure, and safety, emphasizing the importance of strategic decision-making and leveraging outside funding.

“It’s been a busy year for sure,” Perry said, noting significant work in Mansfield’s parks. She credited Safety Service Director Keith Porch, Police Chief Jason Baumann, and Public Works Director Louie Anderson for their contributions. “Just small things from, you know, replacing benches to much larger things that we’re working towards,” Perry said.

A major focus of the interview was the ongoing Main Street streetscape project, a $19.5 million initiative to revitalize downtown Mansfield. Perry explained that the project, which involves replacing 100-year-old water mains and rebuilding the streetscape, will ultimately transform Main Street into a two-way thoroughfare. “We are basically rebuilding Main Street stem to stern,” she said.

The mayor also addressed the importance of downtown events like Final Friday, which draws thousands to the Brickyard. She praised Downtown Mansfield Inc. for their efforts in organizing the events, which have returned to pre-COVID attendance levels.

Perry discussed the city’s efforts to attract new businesses, citing the upcoming Ohio Shine distillery and other potential restaurant developments. She believes the Main Street project will further drive private investment in the downtown area.

A key challenge facing Mansfield, according to Perry, is housing. She noted the increasing pressure from the Columbus metropolitan area and the need for controlled growth. “We just want to make sure we’re ready for them, that we know what we need to provide,” she said.

Perry emphasized Mansfield’s unique assets, including its affordability, quality of life, and diverse cultural offerings. “We have a really good variety for a community of our size,” she said.

MORE PODCASTS: Click here to listen to more Community Spotlight Podcasts presented by First Federal Community Bank