Bastrop, Tx–The Main Street Program board laid out its downtown plaza proposal for the city council Tuesday, but the plan received a cool reception. Three council members said they want to hear about any other options for use of the vacant lot at 923 Main St. before making any decision.
The vacant property fronting Main Street could become a downtown attraction with benches, shade trees and public restrooms, said designer Dan Hays-Clark. He said a rough cost estimate for the development might be $250,000. Main Street board member Steve DeWire, who manages the Lost Pines resort west of town, said the suggestion deserves further study.
Council Member Ken Kesselus said the site is also a point of interest for private developers. “I need to hear from others” before any decision on the future of the property, he said.
Council Member Julie Hart said the council should “look at other options, too” before endorsing the Main Street board suggestion.
Private interests in acquiring and developing the property were not identified. Mayor Terry Orr said he’s interested in the Main Street board suggestion but will hold a public hearing on the issue before any council vote. The city acquired the property last fall, chiefly to secure additional downtown parking and utility rights of way. The property extends from Main to Water Street.
Main Street Program Manager Nancy Wood said future planning efforts for the site should include how to pay for proposed improvements and ongoing maintenance costs.
Tags: downtown development