Since 1987, the City of Huntsville, Texas, and the private sector have joined to establish a Downtown Revitalization Plan designed to strengthen the Downtown as a center for culture and economic activity in the City. The plan has reflected a marriage of Main Street and the Arts. Emphasis is on the historic heritage of the buildings and the value of businesses within; on the design of the streetscape, including landscaping, sidewalks, furniture, and lighting; and on cultural events, exhibits, and facilities.

Through this plan, initiated by the Huntsville Arts Commission, architectural illusion paintings and historical murals by renowned artist Richard Haas improve the buildings and illustrate how the arts can stimulate economic growth and build community spirit. Architectural oversight is by restoration architect Kim Alan Williams. The project is supported by grants from The Meadows Foundation and by Texas Commission on the Arts.

In fall 2000, Huntsville was selected as an official 2001 Texas Main Street City. To learn about the evolution of revitilazation under the Main Street Program, please click on the Huntsville Main Street link on the left.

For information:

• call: 936-291-5422
• FAX: 936-436-1363
• e-mail: lpease@huntsvilletx.gov

The image used above is of the Downtown Square. Click here for more information.