City considers rehab plan for Main St

The Olney Economic Development Corporation hosted a town hall on Aug. 20 to pick citizens’ brains about the best way to revitalize downtown Main Street.

The meeting featured a presentation from Grossman Design-Build, a Mansfield, Texas company hired by OEDC to listen to feedback, explain what is possible on a limited budget, and come up with a plan to rehabilitate downtown’s historic buildings.

Mr. Parker said he hired Gary and Brian Grossman which handles architectural and interior design, landscaping and construction management -- because “we wanted somebody with experience working in small towns.”

Gary Grossman said the plan was “not just about making the buildings pretty” but would address longstanding problems such as drainage along Main Street.

He launched into a slideshow that provided examples of previous projects to get feedback. Attendees included Young County Judge Win Graham, building owners Len Bernhardt, Dan Branum, and Sam Livingston, as well as Mayor Rue Rogers, Stewart’s Food Store co-owner Dan- ny Stewart and about 20 others.

The OEDC wants to refresh downtown with new lighting, paint for building fronts, and a restoration of historic features to attract new businesses and government grants, Mr. Parker said. The plan ultimately could include side street patios, and a gathering place for festivals and food trucks, and possibly residences above the stores, he said.

“You have to put the plan together to get financing,” Mr Parker said.

Mr. Branum and Mr. Bernhardt both said they supported the program.

“I own some building and I am excited about the things they want to do,” Mr. Branum said.

“The overarching theme of tonight is that now is the time,” Mayor Rogers said.

Photo by Will Sadler