Downtown building earns prestigious award
TEXARKANA— Downtown Texarkana is known for its rich history, and now it can proudly add another exciting addition to its history book.
Texarkana Federal Courthouse and Post Office has been named ‘Great Place in Texas’ for 2023 by the American Planning Association. The prestigious award came at a ceremony held in Austin, Texas last month, acknowledging the site’s historic significance and unique appeal. The Courthouse Square features a unique tourist attraction that straddles both the Texas and Arkansas state line.
The uniqueness of the location brings visitors from near and far to experience standing in two different states at the same time.
To qualify for this prestigious award, a space must meet several criteria. It should enhance the quality of life in the community, incorporate and preserve natural systems, serve as a central hub for community engagement and economic activity, cater to a diverse population, promote community health, serve as a regional focal point, and demonstrate a broad spectrum of participation and community involvement in event planning and hosting, according to a release from the city of Texarkana.
Constructed in 1931, the courthouse stands as the second most photographed federal courthouse in the United States and is notably the only one spanning a state line.
Recent revitalization efforts, commencing in 2021, have transformed the Texarkana Courthouse Square into a thriving hub of cultural and economic activity. Notable events such as Oktoberfest, Dine on the Line, Health Fair on the Line, Juneteenth Celebration and Parade, Texarkana Farmers Market, and Food Truck Fridays have infused vibrancy into the square, turning it into a focal point for community gatherings.
Key infrastructure and rehabilitation projects focused on enhancing pedestrian and vehicular safety, historical preservation, and overall area improvement. Initiatives included sidewalk expansion, crosswalk installation, closure of the 5th Street entrance for enhanced vehicle safety, and restoration of original brick streets. Additionally, the addition of a tourist kiosk, public art installations, expanded green spaces, and designated areas for food truck vendors have rendered the square a versatile and dynamic space.
The Texarkana Federal Courthouse & Post Office revitalization project was propelled by a visionary question posed over three years ago: “What would it look like if the Texarkana Federal Courthouse & Post Office was an award-winning public space?” This inquiry sparked imaginative planning and collaboration among stakeholders, resulting in a revitalized space that pays homage to the area’s heritage while fostering community pride and economic growth.
Totaling $1,442,407, funding for the project was sourced from multiple entities, including contributions from both Cities, the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, the Patterson Troike Foundation, and the Texas Commission on the Arts. The collaboration among regional, state, and federal entities played a pivotal role in the successful transformation of the courthouse square.
Situated amidst other iconic landmarks undergoing renovation, such as the Texarkana National Bank and the soon-to-be-completed Hotel Grim, the Courthouse Square stands as a catalyst for downtown revitalization. Its blend of history, culture, and community appeal makes it an essential destination for tourists and residents alike.