Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks explains the plans for the improvements to the court square area at the February 17, 2009, monthly meeting of the Brownsville Business Association.
Mayor Presents Downtown Renovation Plans
Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks presented plans for
renovations to the downtown area to local merchants at the monthly meeting of
the Brownsville Business Association (BBA) Tuesday, February 17, 2009.
Using grant money totaling $740,000, plus a 20% match from
the city, renovations are expected to begin in August with an estimate of 3
months to completion.
With over 35 local merchants in attendance, Banks explained that while the buildings are in “good shape” these changes will help to “liven it up” around the square. He also reminded business owners that money is still available for those on the square who are wishing to make renovations to their buildings.
Highlights of the plan include moving the cannon to a
location on the north side of the courthouse lawn, removing parking in front of
the courthouse and reconfiguring the parking at the back. Brick pavers are
planned along the curbs surrounding the courthouse as well as the islands and
storefront curbs.
Larger brick pavers will be used to better define the
pedestrian crosswalks and will be slightly raised to slow traffic.
The most expensive part of the plans includes replacing
all downtown lighting. Twenty-four new lights will be used. The larger ones
around the perimeter will be double-hung, while smaller lamppost-type lighting
will be used in other strategic locations within the area. New landscaping and
concrete work will complete the project.
