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Changes transform Auburn's center
By Sandra Craner
Can you believe that it is the end of the year already? So much has happened in downtown Auburn in 2006, and I hope everyone has noticed.
As I walk down Genesee Street from the BID office, the first thing I see is the newly painted facade of the Parker's Grill and Tap House building. What a major improvement to the facade with only a coat of paint. Thanks to Parker's for the facelift.
The next thing I notice is the facade work that is being done at 121 Genesee St. This work has been funded in part through the downtown Auburn BID's Main Street Program and will prove to be a major improvement to the building's facade when completed.
Passing by State Street, I see beautiful Christmas trees planted in the planters decorated in colorful ribbons of holiday color. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Jay and Kim Pearson, owners of Nash's Art Supply.
Walking farther down Genesee Street, I notice a new shop that has opened, Kim's Cafe located in the bottom of Lattimore Hall. A friendly atmosphere serving quick lunches and coffee so stop in and say hello.
Heading towards the South/North Street intersection I see a flurry of activity at the Swaby's building. The building has been purchased and is being renovated for an opening date slated very soon. Work on this building is also being funded in part through the Downtown Auburn BID's Main Street Program.
There are a number of Main Street Projects underway, some taking place on the interiors of the buildings in downtown that are not readily seen by the general public, but assisting the businesses within the respective buildings. And many more that are in the process of beginning. So keep your eye out for more building facade and interior work to help us market and recruit new business to our downtown BID.
Many of the businesses, shops and restaurants have wonderful holiday decorations in their windows that help to create a wonderful feeling of holiday cheer. Don't forget to vote for your favorite store front by calling the BID office at 252-7874 or sending an e-mail to aubdpbid@CentralNY.TWCBC.com.
Downtown is beginning to make the transformation into a wonderfully vibrant gathering place for visitors and residents alike. The Auburn Public Theater has been an integral part of that transformation with all the activities and programs and shows that it has offered in its first year of existence. If you have not been to the theater yet, you must go and experience the excitement that it has generated. Visit their Web site at www.auburnpublictheater.com for upcoming events and information.
So, if you haven't been to downtown Auburn lately, now is the time to visit. With close to 285 services, shops and restaurants right in downtown Auburn, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
For a listing of all the Downtown BID businesses, visit our Web site at www.auburndowntown.org or stop by our office at 131 Genesee St. for a free copy of the Experience Downtown Auburn Brochure.
The Downtown Auburn BID is investing in the future of Auburn.
Sandra Craner is executive director of the Downtown Auburn BID. She can be reached at 252-7874
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