Poinsett County Democrat Tribune: Local News: Trumann looking to spruce up East Main (07/02/09)

The city plans to tear down the old pharmacy building to make room for parking for the Water Department.
(Democrat photo/Mark Randall)

Now that major renovations by a local entrepreneur are underway to restore a block of historic buildings along West Main Street, Mayor Sheila Walters is hoping a planned facelift on a city-owned property can help spur some new development on the other end of the block.

Walters said the city is planning to put a new roof on the Water Department building in the Cash building and eventually renovate the two adjoining spaces.

"I want it fixed up like across the railroad tracks," Walters said. "It would be wonderful for that part of town."

A group of young workers who are spending the summer doing odd jobs for the city recently cleaned up the space on the end where the Boy Scouts used to meet.

The space was recently deeded over to the city by the Trumann Lions Club. The middle space is currently occupied by Arkansas State University Adult Education Center.

Ultimately, Walters said the city would like to move the Parks and Recreation department to the middle space where ASU is.

Walters said the city also wants to tear down the old pharmacy building next door and use it for parking for the Water Department.

The city recently tore down a structure in the rear of the building that was an eye-sore.

"There were drug deals going on back there and it was just a mess," Walters said. "I think it (our plan) will upgrade the three buildings that we own there and create some much needed parking."

Walters said the old pharmacy building would need extensive renovations if they decide to leave it standing.

"I'm all for keeping the historical stuff," Walters said. "But the electrical system is really in bad shape and unless someone can come up with an idea or a business that would move in, we may just take it down."

The city is waiting for an estimate on what it will cost to replace the roof first, she said.

Walters said she hopes the city's efforts to revitalize the block will generate some interest by the private sector to invest in the buildings on North Ozark Street.

North Ozark and East Main were once the heart of commercial activity in Trumann but have since fallen in to disrepair over the years as businesses abandoned downtown.

"It needs to be kept clean," Walters said. "I want to see it all upgraded."

Please don't tear down the old Campbell Drugstore! Many memories are held there for a lot of folks! I worked there during my jr. high and high school years. I no longer live in Trumann but it seems that this section of town could be renovated with antique shops and specialty restaurants to attract new people into town. If it was done right it would be a great nostalgia destination for tourist, motorcyclists, etc. who would like to visit a small town. Maybe even get used for a movie set? Think about it!

-- Posted by poppa_tiger on Fri, Jul 3, 2009, at 12:50 AM

I agree. I was born and raised here and it just broke my heart to think of tearing that building down. If I could I would renovate it. Surely there is someone or a group of people that could work together to help restore that building. Such a shame to tear that building down.

If anyone knows the Campbells, maybe they could contribute to help with the project.

-- Posted by mimi2 on Fri, Jul 3, 2009, at 7:37 PM

I recently came home for a visit.And I thought everything is leaving my home.It would be so wonderful if some of Trumann could be saved.

-- Posted by rgn967 on Sat, Jul 4, 2009, at 3:57 AM