Phase Two of the Palestine Downtown Revitalization Project Will Update Streets, Sidewalks, and Utilities

On July 1, 2024, work crews closed North Sycamore Street at the intersections of West Oak Street and West Crawford Street to launch Phase Two of the City of Palestine Downtown Revitalization Project. This phase is expected to last 70 days, which means the improvements should be complete by mid-September.  

"We are incredibly excited to be progressing on the Downtown Revitalization Project, which will replace utilities, sidewalks, and streets in the Central Business District,” says Mary Ann Admire, City of Palestine Main Street Coordinator. “We are so grateful to the City leadership for their vision and determination to make downtown safe and accessible.”

Many of the downtown utilities were originally installed in the early 1900s. For nearly a century, the city has only made repairs to these systems, never replacing them. Phase 2 will allow the city to make these necessary upgrades while also improving the sidewalks and roads in the area. 

A Rainy Spring Delayed Phase 1, But Phase 2 is on Schedule

This Spring brought an incredible amount of rain to Palestine, Texas, pushing back the deadlines to complete Phase 1. However, Kevin Olson, the City of Palestine’s Public Works Director, recently approved this phase as substantially complete, allowing the project’s general contractor, Tegrity Contractors, to move ahead with Phase 2.  

Admire said the extraordinary rainfall clearly demonstrated the immediate need for improved storm drainage as water rushed over the sidewalks and into merchant spaces. Enhancing the storm drainage system will not only prevent flooding but also ensure the resilience of downtown infrastructure and businesses, promoting economic stability and accessibility for both residents and visitors to Main Street businesses on rainy days.

“People love visiting Main Street Palestine no matter the weather,” says Christophe Trahan, Economic Development Director at the Palestine Economic Development Corporation (PEDC). “But these improvements will make shopping and recreation even more enjoyable, which will make a big difference to our Main Street business owners.”  

Residents Have Ample Alternative Routes Downtown

Residents will experience minor changes to traffic flow while Phase 2 is underway. For the time being, North Sycamore will remain closed at the Spring Street intersection. West Main Street has returned to one-way traffic from North Magnolia to Avenue A.

Admire recommends taking alternative routes via Lacy Street or Spring Street to reach your destination. The businesses around the affected Phase 2 areas are open and accessible, so you can still visit your favorite shops and restaurants.

The construction area of the Palestine Main Street District has a grid system design, which makes it easy for drivers and pedestrians to find alternative routes for driving and parking, but residents and visitors are encouraged to reach out to the businesses for any questions or assistance with accessibility issues. 

The City of Palestine is Eager for Residents to Enjoy These Improvements

Residents of Palestine, Texas have been patiently waiting for these downtown renovations to be completed. City officials are working diligently to assist the contractors and engineers with hitting their target deadlines so everyone can enjoy the new accessible sidewalks, street surfaces, and improved utilities. Business owners, visitors, and Palestine residents alike will all benefit from this project.

“We deeply appreciate the patience of the property owners and businesses impacted by the construction zones and all those who continue to shop at these small, local businesses,” says Admire. “Your support is crucial to the success of this project and the vibrancy of our downtown.”

Admire's optimism reflects the city's commitment to revitalizing and improving the community's infrastructure.

Keep Up With Other Improvements in Palestine, Texas 

The City of Palestine is constantly changing with new businesses opening and more people discovering Northeast Texas. Now is an exciting time to explore Palestine, Texas.

“Our team at Palestine EDC is ready to help anyone who wants to grow their business in the region,” says Christophe. “Every company makes a difference, from entrepreneurs opening on Main Street to major employers expanding their facilities. We have updated our infrastructure to support you.”  

Follow the Palestine EDC for additional updates about the Main Street revitalization project and other opportunities for business owners who want to expand or open their doors in the area.