Published: March 06, 2008 07:09 pm         

Main Street to shut down for Perry visit

By Leslie Gibson

Herald-Banner Staff



Everyone is invited to come meet Texas First Lady, Anita Perry, on March 11, and help Royse City officially kick-off its Main Street Program, for which it was one of only two cities selected for 2008.

Perry will unveil an architect’s rendering of possible historical restoration of the facade of the building which is home to Leeza’s Pizza.

Because of the proven record of economic development for downtown building and business owners who take advantage of the free and low-cost expertise and work of the Texas Main Street program, Royse City officials extend a warm welcome to the public for its chance to learn how to help make downtown thrive.

The ceremony begins at 1:45 p.m., with Perry giving a keynote address at the stage at Arch and Main Streets. City and school officials, downtown building and business owners, and school children of all ages, including Royse City High School’s National Honor Society members, will attend and participate.

At 2:30 p.m., the public and the First Lady’s entourage will move to the Royse City City Hall’s “Mellody Room” for a reception.

Main Street will be shut down on that Tuesday from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. for the festivities.

That morning, Perry will have also opened Main Street in the other city selected, Laredo.

“Growing up in a small town, I know the vital role downtown plays in the community,” said Perry. “Being a Main Street city means citizens recognize that downtown is still the heart and soul of their community.”

Grants and low interest loans, and free expertise in architectural, space planning, and financial issues to the downtown property owners are available to the building owners.

Royse City’s Main Street is already viable with many locally owned businesses anchoring key spots along the street. It is the scene of the ever-expanding Christmas celebration, the well-attended October Fun Fest, and was the recent site of the grand opening of the new space for Royse City’s library, named C.F. Goodwin Library.