City Council ends parking elimination, prepares for Light Up Ellijay
City Council November 16, 2021
GILMER, Ga. — The Ellijay City Council has voted to end the River St. parking elimination test early, and will move barricades to the downtown roundabout in preparation for Light Up Ellijay on Nov. 26.
During their October meeting, city council discussed the details of a controversial bid to eliminate downtown parking. Ultimately, at the recommendation of the DDA, the council voted to barricade only River St. parking and set a test period of Oct. 23 to Jan. 2.
However, at their latest meeting, the Ellijay City Council voted to remove the barricades from River St. early, and have them relocated to the roundabout for the Light Up Ellijay event. After the event, the barricades will be moved back to storage. There was some discussion about setting a new test period, but Police Chief Lacey said, “I think what we found out, is that it warrants further study by somebody who is more learned and has some stamps on their certifications.”
Barricades are currently in place to block parking along River St.
Light Up Ellijay is an annual event that serves as an unofficial beginning to the Christmas season for Ellijay residents. Each year, the downtown fills with residents coming to see the parade and watch the lighting of the Christmas tree. COVID-19 complications prevented the full celebration in 2020, but Light Up Ellijay is set to take place this year on Nov. 26, with the parade beginning at 6 p.m.
Light up Ellijay canceled due to concerns for the coronovirus
Featured Stories, News November 18, 2020
The City of Ellijay announced Tuesday that it will not be moving forward with Light up Ellijay. This decision was based upon concerns about the coronavirus outbreak. The annual lighting of the tree and holiday parade is a tradition in Gilmer County held in downtown Ellijay. This event is sponsored by the City of Ellijay. Authorities at the County Clerk’s office confirmed Tuesday that permits had not been filed for either the parade or the lighting of the tree. Police Chief Edward Lacey expressed that the concern for the safety of the citizens of Ellijay was the first and foremost priority. He went on to say that the city supported the Downtown Ellijay Business and Community Association.
Business continues as usual in Ellijay during this holiday season. Citizens and visitors are encouraged to shop, dine and patron the downtown area. Measures are being taken to ensure that local businesses comply with social distancing guidelines while still being able to celebrate and share the joy of the holiday season.
Though petitions for Light up Ellijay have not been filed by either the chamber of commerce or the city, The Gilmer Arts will be offering an event with Santa at The Gilmer Arts Playhouse on December 19th. The Holiday movie “Prancer” will be shown at 3 pm and 6 pm. Santa will appear from 5 pm -6:30 pm along with tea and cookies. Pre-registration is required as there will only be 40 seats per show available at www.GilmerArts.com. Admission is two canned goods. Masks will be required and social distancing measures will be taken to ensure the safety of all patrons.