What is the Mainstreet Makeover?

The “Mainstreet Makeover” is the name of a building facade improvement and other beautifications projects. Fifteen buildings are receiving new facades, paint and other exterior improvements. It is believed to be the largest concentrated renovation project in the Teller County/El Paso County, Colorado region, with all properties to be completed in a five week period this summer. Mainstreet Makeover is also the name of the event on July 11th that will celebrate the completion of the project.

Where did the money come from for the “Mainstreet Makeover” project?

The “Mainstreet Makeover” project is the result of a proactive effort by local businesses, with grants from the Woodland Park Downtown Development Authority and Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Company. Park State Bank & Trust offered special low interest loans to those who wished to augment their project financing. The City of Woodland Park, Teller County and the State of Colorado offered cooperation in making possible this novel approach to re-investing in the downtown business district and the community.

Where is the work being done and how much work is involved in the construction project?

With one exception, Gold Hill Java, all the businesses are located in the city’s old downtown. The projects include painting at Flutterbys & Party Bugs, awnings at Seven Arrows Gallery, facade upgrades at half a dozen businesses, a sign for a new tenant in the Curves for Women building, rear entrance work at a few businesses, a small landscaping project at Williams Brothers Furniture and some all-around-the-building work at Cowbells and The Cowhand. Eight flower vessels are on order for the city’s downtown. These will be mingled amongst hanging flower baskets.

Where and when is the “Mainstreet Makeover” celebration?

The primary activities will be held in Downtown, Woodland Park on Saturday, July 11, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. in addition to other activities that will be held throughout the local area.

Who is organizing this celebration?

The Mainstreet Makeover committee is organizing the event and consists of representatives from the Downtown Development Authority, the Woodland Park Chamber of Commerce, the Woodland Park Saddle Club and from numerous local businesses. Barbara Fritz from Park State Bank & Trust is primarily managing the information flow and the booking of businesses and activities for the event. Her direct telephone line at the bank is 719-686-5231. Here email address is barbara.fritz@mypsb.com

Who can attend the “Mainstreet Makeover” celebration?

Everyone. The public is invited to attend.

Who can participate in the “Mainstreet Makeover” celebration?

Any business, non-profit organization, artist or craftsman and food vendor from Teller County. However, to participate, you must register for assigned location, and for certain county and city approval.

Who do I contact if I wanted to participate in the celebration?

Barbara Fritz at Park State Bank and Trust. Her direct telephone line at the bank is 719-686-5231. Here email address is barbara.fritz@mypsb.com

What kind of exhibits, activities and entertainment will be at the celebration?

An entire list of activities is posted and will be updated as activities, exhibits and events are added at www.MainstreetMakeover.org. The celebration will include an early morning Native American blessing ritual, Color Guard, and a ribbon cutting ceremony. Will there be food at the celebration? A variety of food will be available for purchase.

Will there be any celebrities at this event?

A number of national, state, and local dignitaries have been invited. No RSVPs have been received yet as of this posting.

Will businesses be open during this celebration?

Yes.

Where can I park if I wanted to attend the celebration?

A parking map is available for downloading and printing at www.MainstreetMakeover.org. Plus, maps will be available at the event.

Where can I find out more information?

www.MainstreetMakeover.org