DOWNTOWN OFFERS GEMS OF THE PAST, PLANS FOR THE FUTURE
Few downtown antiquities have endured the test of time to maintain a nostalgic if not rustic charm, serving as a reminder of what once was.
The historic stretch Broad Street, the legendary railway, the one-of-a-kind courthouse: all provide a sense of history and community.
As good as nostalgia may feel, the look of downtown does not quite match the intensity of the wistful affection. Several groups and organizations are collaborating to change this by fully capitalizing on the area’s potential via new businesses, land developments, municipal aid and volunteer work.
In addition to those collective efforts, several key factors are already in place to make downtown a success worthy of future investment.
The Courthouse Square Initiative is the update that will have the biggest effect on the area. The federal courthouse is an unique architectural icon that attracts tourists from all over the world and is the second-most photographed courthouse in the United States.
The building is positioned as a gateway to the historic district of Texarkana. Main Street Texarkana Director Ina McDowell believes the courthouse to be “the front door to our downtown,” and as such, it is an important anchor to the area’s redevelopment activities.
Included in the initiative are new roadway pavement, raised islands, crosswalks, sidewalks, street trees, a plaza area, pedestrian lighting, street lighting, way-finding signage and various aesthetic treatments. Anyone familiar with the city’s Step Projects can expect the CSI to adhere to those same standards.
According to construction contracts, the project is expected to occur in phases over a projected three-year period, with the total cost estimated between $500,000 and $750,000. The public had its first chance to enjoy the upcoming amenities at the fifth annual Railfest celebration sponsored in part by Better Block.
The one-day event transformed the entire four-block stretch of downtown into a pedestrian- and cycle-friendly commerce area the city hopes will become permanent in the future.
Already in place for tourists and residents alike are the conveniences and attractions one would expect from a gracious host city—ample dining options, public art displays, theatrical performances and plenty of space to walk and take in the atmosphere with friends.
The north walls of the buildings in the 100 block of East Broad Street, along with
several benches and other small public spaces, are getting fresh coats of paint to add new life to the old architecture while providing drivers with a more colorful route.
The group Little Doors has joined in on the artistic flair in their own way.
The name says it all, as their miniature doors can be found throughout downtown on building walls and tree trunks, behind signs, on benches and even under stairs. According to the Urban Renaissance affiliate, not knowing where one will pop up next is all part of the fun.
For those wanting the traditional art experience, several accommodations are available. Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council has several offerings including plays at the Perot Theatre, art exhibits and more at the Regional Arts Center and a visual guide to the cities’ narrative at the Museum of Regional History, and for children, the Discovery Place museum offers an interactive learning experience.
Car enthusiasts can get their automobile fix at Four States Auto Museum, East Third and Laurel streets. The nonprofit educational corporation collects, preserves and exhibits a variety of automobiles, auto transportation equipment and related historical artifacts.
Similar to the city’s daytime visual displays, the variety of entertainment and dining options available is the spice of Texarkana’s night life. From authentic Mexican dishes to true Italian cuisine, stomachs are sure to growl with anticipation at the culinary choices.
Hopkins Icehouse and Arrow Bar Grill offer live music and generous drink specials and have become popular among the burger-and-beer crowd. Newcomer Pecan Point Brewing Co. is Texarkana’s first microbrewery and features unique and original dishes, made-to-order cocktails and an inviting interior.
If the perfect venue is what you seek, several options are in place to suit the function’s needs.
For formal occasions, there is the Silvermoon on Broad, which describes itself in short: “We have the place. You bring the party.” The building boasts five spaces including a singer courtyard and great hall, with size enough to accommodate large events or intimate gatherings.
The historic Ace of Clubs House is another well-known site, with its octagonal Victorian architecture and intriguing back story. It is distinguished as being the oldest standing house in town and is open to the general public.
Not every venue is traditional in its operation, as venturing off the beaten path will reveal a decorated area most are unaware of. The group known as Alley Catz has left its mark in a small space near what is known as the pocket park with chalk portraits that give a block party vibe to the open alleyway.
No matter the crowd or occasion, downtown Texarkana has what it takes to satisfy a mixture of tastes and preferences, and with plans for added commerce and visual improvements, it looks to expand on that range.
Thanks to committed individuals and coordinated group efforts, the updates needed to boost downtown are in the process of being completed. Like the rise of the phoenix, the downtown area is shaking off the ash and dust to begin a new life as an integral cog in the Twin Cities machine.