Big changes could be coming to Downtown Temple after the City Council voted Thursday to adopt a resolution authorizing amendments to a development agreement to increase Strategic Investment Zone
(SIZ) grant funding for development of downtown properties at 110 and 112 South 1st St.

In a statement issued Friday, City of Temple Communications Director Shannon Gowan said the City is committed to establishing long-term economic vitality in what she called "SIZ corridors", encouraging redevelopment and diversification.

“Temple’s Downtown Area is located in one of the SIZ corridors and allows property owners in the area who meet certain criteria to apply for matching grant funds in real property investments,” City of Temple Planning Director Brian Chandler said. “We are excited to see the revitalization of our downtown historic business district and look forward to the renovation of these two properties, in particular.”

Both properties are eligible for up to $115,000 in matching grant funds.

So, what do the property owners plan to do with that money?

Well, the plan right now is to renovate those areas and construct a pizzeria, a deli, a coffee house, and a tap room. There'll also be improvements to building facades and landscaping, interior renovations, and added fire suppression systems.

There are even plans for a spacious outdoor seating area complete with a playground and game area.

Downtown Temple is such a beautiful place to visit, but there's still a great deal of work left to do. Still, it's great to see the City and investors getting serious about revitalizing and renovating it. Let's just hope that includes preserving some of the old structures so there's still some of that classic Downtown charm.

 

More From KTEM-AM