Bastrop, Tx–A unique property in downtown Bastrop with frontage on both Main and Water Street has been purchased for $235,000 by the city. The site is valuable both for additional downtown parking and utility easements, according to city officials.
The purchase was confirmed today both by Mayor Terry Orr and City Manager Mike Talbot, who said the transaction closed 10 days ago.
The Main Street frontage, formerly home to the Texas Merchantile crafts and antiques consignment mall in the 900 block, was destroyed almost a decade ago by a fire of unknown origin. In 2003 city voters authorized bond money to buy rights of way to clear up disputed easements and public access issues from Water Street to downtown properties fronting on the 900 block of Main and the 700 block of Chestnut Street.
The purchase may add additional downtown parking spaces, said Orr. Talbot said the acquisition will help clear up utility right of way issues for electric power lines as well as water, sewer and drainage needs in the heart of downtown.
Part of the property fronting on Main Street, between Baxters on Main Street restaurant and a private residence, may be available for commercial redevelopment in the future, according to officials.