Van Main Street Debate Continues

In August 2009, the Van Economic Development Corporation (EDC) sponsored a workshop inviting citizens, civic leaders and business owners to discuss what they would like to see happen in Van in the future.

From this initial meeting a group has evolved that is now exploring ways to revitalize downtown Van and enhance the City of Van overall. Their main goal is to improve the image and appearance of Van while stimulating economic growth in the process.

The vision is to provide vintage-themed shopping, dining and entertainment in a way that protects and preserves Van’s heritage and rural appeal. After visiting the Main Street cities of Winnsboro, Celina, and McKinney and then reporting their findings to the Van City Council, this group received the city council’s endorsement to pursue the possibility of becoming a Main Street City.

As a result, the group was able to interest leaders from The Texas Historical Commission in Austin to come to Van to speak about the Main Street program and the opportunities it could provide to the city. On Monday, January 25, at 6 p.m., Van citizens are encouraged to attend a special meeting at the Van Community Center. Robert Johnson, Economic Development Specialist with the Texas Historical Commission and Wayne Bell, Architect for the Texas Main Street Program, both from Austin, will lead the meeting. During this informational meeting the benefits and requirements of being recognized as a Main Street city will be presented. As a unique economic development tool, the Main Street program leads citizens to preserve the local history and heritage while revitalizing their communities through cooperative efforts. Who benefits from a revitalized downtown? "Everyone," said Glenn Williams, administrator of the Van EDC.

"We all benefit, whether merchants, property owners, financial institutions, professionals and service businesses, the Chamber of Commerce, residents, local government, schools, churches and all surrounding businesses and residents," said Williams. If the City of Van proceeds with the Main Street application, its success will depend on the interest and involvement of citizens in the Van area.

If Van citizens apply for the Main Street Program and the Historical Commission approves it, Van will be the fourth city in Van Zandt County to become a Main Street city.

Other cities already involved in the program include Canton, Grand Saline and Wills Point. The Economic Development Corporation and the downtown revitalization group invite the public to come be a part of revitalizing Van.

"Today’s generation could be making history by impacting the health and wealth of Van. Their efforts may well have a positive impact on future generations," said Williams.

For further details, contact Williams at the Van EDC, at (903) 963-1059 or at gwilliams@vanedc.org.