A committee struck to further explore a sidewalk reconstruction/beautification plan for Carman's downtown business area met Tuesday to discuss how to move forward.

The committee made up of town council members has been tasked with how to proceed with existing Ash trees in the downtown area, bricks and paving stones, and how parking will be set up.

One of the biggest issues during the process regards existing Ash trees in the downtown area, some of which have caused the sidewalks to heave. Council originally wanted the Ash trees removed, however, a number of groups and community members have been lobbying to have the trees stay.

Over the next several weeks, committee members will research a number of aspects related to the project, including the options available for paving stones, as well as further explore the tree issue. "We will get someone to come in to assess the condition of the trees, what type of trees would be more suitable, and how to go about putting them into a concrete sidewalk, and how much space they need," explained Mitchell.

He didn't specify where, but Mitchell noted there is actually an area where they think they may even be able to add trees downtown.

Meanwhile, Mitchell says council has given the committee a month to complete a plan. He says, however, some work might begin in the area shortly. "We're looking at one area that we may even start as early as next week," said Mitchell. He said the work would only address brick work and drainage.