OEDC Reveals Details of Main Street Plan

The Olney Economic Development Corporation (OEDC) presented conceptual drawings of its plan to is moving forward with its plan to revitalize East Main Street, beginning with conceptual drawings and budget estimates from Grossman Design | Build that were recently presented to the Olney City Council.

The initial scope covers a three-block section of the central business district, including the Olney Enterprise building and the former Masonic Lodge. The plans include façade upgrades, ADA-compliant sidewalk improvements, and a conceptual design for a downtown entry structure or “welcome wall” to anchor the historic area.

“This is the first real constructive packet we’ve received from Grossman,” said OEDC Executive Director Tom Parker. “It gives us a roadmap for what’s possible and how to start working with downtown property owners on implementation.”

Mr. Parker said a stakeholder working group is being formed, composed of building owners within the designated stretch of East Main. The goal is to gauge owner participation, determine what aspects might be privately funded, and identify what may require support from the OEDC or outside grants. The group is expected to meet on June 9 to begin making those decisions.

Mr. Parker also noted that his team is working with local vendors to explore cost-effective options for fabricated elements like awnings and signage.

“We hope to have budget numbers from those vendors by the first week in June,” he said.

On the funding side, Mr. Parker reported positive developments, including the submission of a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application and a possible infusion from the Texas Capital Fund, which could provide up to $500,000 in assistance. City Administrator Simon Dwyer has played a key role in securing those opportunities, Mr. Parker said.

Meanwhile, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is conducting its own study on how to reduce traffic noise and improve drainage through downtown.

The agency is considering a redesign of intersections at Grand Avenue and Avenue C that would include underground storm drains and enhanced pedestrian access. If approved, those improvements could be funded entirely by the state, freeing up local dollars for aesthetics and business-front improvements, Mr. Parker said.

“They may actually install some down drains that will actually take that water off of the highway, put it underground, and then take it south on Grand and on C,” he said.