The Grand Junction City Council is showing continued interest in an idea that would shift I-70B while maximizing opportunities downtown.

Up for discussion Monday night during a presentation by the Downtown Development Authority was moving the one-way routes of Pitkin and Ute Avenues south one block. DDA officials say it would allow the city to capitalize on park properties in the area while creating new opportunities for housing and commercial interests.

After presenting the concept to council members, officials decided to move forward with developing cost figures and outlining a plan that could pave the way for this idea to come to light.

"Grand Junction has come a long way in terms of planting the seeds for a revitalized downtown, but the long term vision of downtown is as a much more developed, much more vibrant mixed-use district," Harry Weiss, Executive Director of the DDA, said.

Monday night's conversation also outlined trying to connect Colorado Riverfront property with the downtown area, making much of downtown more pedestrian friendly, and expanding downtown beyond Main Street.

Officials say the idea of this plan has been discussed now for several years and expressed interest in making sure it advances.

No timetable has been set for the eventual plan to be carried out although a 50 year figure is being thrown around. It is also still too early to establish any ballpark costs for the 'master plan.'

Before any work could be done, officials say certain studies will have to be completed.