A Titusville city council member has called for transparency over a $600,000 beautification project on a downtown street, citing a lack of public input and unclear budget breakdowns. The project, which covers a 0.8-mile stretch of Saturn Avenue, includes new landscaping, streetlights, and pedestrian walkways. Council member Maria Lopez said she received no detailed proposals before the project was approved in May. "We need to know where the money is going," Lopez said during a recent council meeting. "This isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s taxpayer dollars." The city manager, David Hart, defended the project, stating it was approved by a 5-2 vote after a public hearing in March. Hart said the budget includes $250,000 for trees, $150,000 for lighting, and $200,000 for infrastructure upgrades. Critics argue the cost is excessive for a street that sees limited commercial traffic. "Saturn Avenue isn’t a tourist hotspot," said local business owner Tom Reynolds. "Why spend that much on a road that doesn’t need it?" The project is part of a broader $2 million downtown revitalization plan, which also includes a new parking garage and pedestrian bridges. City officials say the beautification effort aims to boost property values and attract new businesses. However, Lopez has asked for an independent audit of the project’s costs and timelines. "If this is about growth, we need to ensure it’s smart growth," she said. "Not just spending for the sake of spending." The city council is scheduled to revisit the project’s budget at its next meeting on July 12. Meanwhile, residents have begun organizing a petition to delay construction until more details are made public. "We’re not against improvement," said resident Karen Mitchell. "But we deserve to be involved in the process."