Significant aesthetic changes will be made soon to the streetscape on Main Street Russellville between the blocks of fifth and fourth streets thanks to the recent signing off of plans by the state historic preservation office.

Main Street Russellville, an arm of the city and organization created to promote and restore the downtown area, was awarded a $325,000 streetscape grant in 2008 and has been diligently putting the finishing touches onto plans and drawings for the project.

With the Feb. 2 release of those plans by the state, the city is now free to take the next step in seeing through a plan that will change the downtown area into a destination that mimics the city’s historically rich past.

“We are very excited to begin what we have envisioned for years,” said Darlene Gooch, Main Street director.

Although a project this large can only be accomplished in phases, it is the hopes of the Main Street Board that two blocks can receive the facelift under the recent grant. “We hope that we can also begin working on the block of Main Street between fourth and third streets as well with this grant,” said Gooch adding, “Only time will tell as the bids come in.”

The city has already spoken with the Electric Plant Board about burying the necessary electricity needed for historic lamp posts along the sidewalk. They will be speaking with the telephone company as well about burying the telephone lines.

Some of the changes will include new sidewalks, cobblestone curbing, new coal shoot plates, trash cans, flower boxes, signage and brink entries into each business as well as risen brick crosswalks.

It is the intention of Main Street and the city to revitalize the entire downtown section of Russellville close to the square. Gooch said there are already very exciting things occurring downtown including the new restaurant being constructed in the old Duncan’s Drug Store building by Barbara Hirsch. Also the renovation of the old theater is still ongoing and currently seeking funding to finish the project.

“We want to make the downtown a place people want to come and shop, eat and be entertained,” said Russellville Mayor Gene Zick adding, “If we make it a destination spot and give people a reason to come here they will.”

Zick said he has been speaking with several people who really want to come to the square and build their businesses. We need the downtown to be place that is inviting to the public and that is exactly what is going to happen,” said Zick.