ST. CLAIRSVILLE is one of the most scenic communities in the Ohio Valley.

Its beauty extends well beyond the downtown area, rolling into outlying subdivisions. St. Clairsville residents take great pride in the appearance and upkeep of its hilltop home.

St. C. boasts what many local towns do not have — an eye-pleasing and vibrant business district. It is a virtual daily beehive of activity.

With that as a backdrop, we agree with the thinking of the city’s Planning and Zoning Administrator Tom Murphy.

In his position, Murphy is obvious hands on with the vitality and happenings within the business district.

Murphy recently spoke up in opposition to a frequently heard mode of thinking. That being to raze downtown buildings and businesses not currently in use and turn them into parking lots.

We concur with Murphy’s thinking in buildings hold more potential for development than parking lots.

Adding parking lots at the expense of existing structures makes no sense. They may provide convenience for a few more motorists bu nothing else. The fewer the businesses, the less the need for parking lots.

St. Clairsville enjoyed a successful 2010 in regards to attracting new businesses. Moreover, the ones setting up shop in the town’s historic district must adhere to specific guidelines, ensuring the downtown’s uniformity and beauty in not jeopardized.

The historic district is a nationally registered entity, and plays big into the city’s vibrancy. It has spawned the renovation of many buildings to meet the guidelines.

The former Belmont County sheriff’s residence is targeted to be the next structure to undergo a facelift. Many had it in line for the wrecking ball. Fortunately, cooler heads prevailed at the city’s landscape will eventually benefit.

St. Clairsville sits in rarified air in regards to its downtown business district, as it possesses both beauty and activity. Buildings present the city potential for more of both.