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Main Street reports downtown market, trolley tours and preservation events; board discusses facade grants and downtown revitalization

3071458 · April 16, 2025
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Summary

Main Street coordinator reported a successful downtown market (42 vendors), nine trolley tours, a trash bash and ongoing planning for a Main Street revitalization plan tied to the loop project and upcoming events. Board members discussed increasing facade grant amounts and asked staff to research peer programs.

The Rio Grande City Main Street Coordinator updated the EDC on recent downtown events and revitalization planning and outlined next steps for preservation and facade efforts.

The Main Street report said the April downtown market featured 42 vendors and was well received; the program will continue with a May 3 event. Staff reported nine trolley tours in the past month and said visitors praised the city's historic architecture and downtown character. The coordinator said a Texas Treasure Business Award application was submitted on behalf of Caro's Cafe, and that the estimated review for that recognition is two to three months.

Board members discussed the boost/grant program and whether the current $2,500 match per business is sufficient for meaningful facade work. One board member, speaking as a builder, said $25,000—2,500 to $30,000'could produce significant exterior improvements and asked staff to present what peer communities do for matching and grant sizes at a summer workshop. Staff said they will present a work-plan and funding options during the summer workshop and that they will bring an obligations sheet to the next meeting so members understand available funding.

The Main Street team also announced a May 13 historical-preservation dinner, a May 22 fallen-hero ceremony and a Memorial Day event featuring retired General Ricardo Sanchez. The board was invited to a hotel-groundbreaking ceremony in late May and other ribbon-cutting events connected with recent business investment.