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Oregon Main Street grant will back restoration of historic Craven building; other downtown projects discussed
Summary
Commissioners noted the Downtown Association secured an Oregon Main Street revitalization grant for the former Craven Brothers Hardware building (owned by Commissioner Dan Draisios). The commission also discussed the Blue Guard project and possible urban renewal funding to preserve a deteriorating grain elevator in South Dallas.
The Historic Preservation Commission reported that one of two Oregon Main Street revitalization grant applications was successful: the award will support restoration work on the former Craven Brothers Hardware building, a project owned by newly seated Commissioner Dan Draisios.
Commission Chair said the design committee helped secure the approximately $264,000 grant for the Craven/antique-mall building, and that Dan will use the money for a major restoration of the building—s historic elements. Chair also mentioned the Blue Guard project remains planned but will be financed mainly by its owner.
Commissioners discussed other downtown funding efforts, including ongoing work with Rebecca Ziegler (consultant) and city urban renewal staff to seek additional grants. Chair noted that the recent state legislative session reduced an available $200,000–$400,000 Main Street grant line for the next biennium, which may limit similar awards in the short term.
The commission discussed a deteriorating grain elevator in South Dallas and suggested the South Dallas Urban Renewal District might consider a grant program to preserve the structure; members noted the urban renewal district has contingency funds (commissioners referenced about $300,000 in contingency) that could be used for preservation work.
At the meeting staff also announced the Downtown Association named the downtown historic district Project of the Year and presented a plaque to the city.
Why it matters: The Oregon Main Street award brings significant restoration funding for a prominent downtown property and signals continued investment in downtown revitalization. Commission attention to other potential grant avenues and urban renewal funds signals a strategy to leverage multiple sources for preservation projects.
Provenance: initial mention of the grant and Dan Draisios— restoration begins at 00:00:43; the Downtown Association award is discussed at 00:50:47.
