Main Street projects in the works

There are some great things going on with Main Street Thermopolis that folks will be able to see for themselves, hopefully by this fall.

The group recently received a pair of grants totaling $6,876 to help with a couple of projects downtown that they’ve been wanting to get going on.

The first project is designation signs to be placed in the downtown area, designating it as an historical area. The eight signs will hang on the lamp posts.

Those who have lived in Thermopolis any length of time will undoubtedly remember the large pine trees that once stood on the east and west side of the flagpole at the intersection of Fifth and Broadway.

While their removal did open up the line of sight at the intersection, it really isn’t that pretty to look at, but Main Street Thermopolis had an idea that actually takes care of two issues at once.

They have received funding to build a raised garden bed on each side of the intersection where the pine trees once stood.

The flower beds will add beauty to the area, but along with the beauty will be functionality as the group will also be building seating around the beds to give folks more areas to sit during parades and other downtown events.

Once all the paperwork is finished through Main Street Wyoming the work can start and they are hoping to have the beds completed by Octobrewfest.

The idea for the flower bed seating comes from “placemaking” or utilizing unused space. The theory is starting small, working lighter, quicker and cheaper.

Main Street will be hosting a placemaking session at Town Hall on Wednesday, Sept. 12 from 1 – 5 p.m. Anyone may come with ideas of little spaces that could be repurposed to create public spaces.

Main Street has new officers for the coming year that include Suzanne Samelson as President, John Dorman, Jr. is Vice President, Tracy Linko, Secretary and MeriAnn Rush is Treasurer.