Columbus held a retreat last Saturday and discussed long range issues and plans for the town, including a walkability study, more sidewalks and business recruitment. One of the town&squo;s top priorities is a walkability study that would include researching what rights of way and closed streets could be made into walking and bicycle trails.Council members also said the town needs more sidewalks. The areas of Peak Street and Peniel Road up to Holly Hill subdivision were earmarked as initial places to add sidewalks in the future. Other top goals were to recruit more businesses including new restaurants and hotels for Columbus. Council held its retreat at the Stearns educational building Saturday. The meeting was facilitated by Isothermal Planning and Development Commission&squo;s Jim Edwards. Officials discussed the possibility of pursuing the N.C. Department of Transportation&squo;s Enhancement Program in order to receive funding for downtown and sidewalk improvements for the future. Council members also discussed wanting new traffic and street lights downtown and seeking funding help for those.