A downtown revitalization group kicked off its annual membership drive last week. Downtown Houston Inc. has several projects planned this year, including a welcome center in the former Haney Market, where work began this week.
On tap are:
*Development of the welcome center. A new copper-colored roof, new porch and extensive interior remodeling are planned.
*Across the street at the former Houston Redi-Mix site, wildflowers, native plants and grasses will be planted. The area will serve as the trailhead for the Village Trail, a walking and biking venue that has begun. One phase is complete in Emmett Kelly Park and work is underway for the trail along Brushy Creek. Another section will run near the new county justice center to Airport Road.
*Some new sidewalks, lighting and the first phase of the Lone Star Plaza are complete. New trash receptacles are in place downtown. The group will lead an effort that will include frames containing historic pictures of the downtown etched on a copper surface. They are part of the trash receptacle project.
*Work also will be completed on a native rock sign near South Grand Avenue and U.S. 63 that directs traffic to the downtown.
Dues for persons ($15 for a membership) and businesses ($25) can be mailed to: Downtown Houston, P.O. Box 170, Houston, Mo. 65483.
The group’s strong membership base has been important to the success of receiving several grants for projects.