On Thursday evening, City Council adopted a resolution authorizing a development agreement to provide Strategic Investment Zone (SIZ) grant funding for development of downtown property at 108 N. Main Street.
The City of Temple is committed to establishing long-term economic vitality in SIZ corridors, encouraging redevelopment and diversification. Downtown Temple is designated as its own SIZ area, which allows property owners to apply for matching grant funds primarily for the rehabilitation of visible facades, landscaping and life safety-related interior improvements. “We are excited to see the original façade restored and this mixed use concept in our downtown National Register Historic District,” says Temple’s Director of Planning, Brian Chandler. “It will be a unique addition to the Temple community.” This property is eligible to receive up to $100,000 in matching grant funds and an additional $30,000 for downtown mixed-use residential units.
The owner is proposing to renovate the property and construct a food hall on the ground floor with four (4) apartments units on the second floor. According to Mr. Chandler, “The food hall concept is one that has become popular in larger cities, but would be new to Bell County.” The project scope consists of a rehabilitation of the interior and exterior, including fire suppression, façade improvements, an outdoor seating area and an elevator installation. According to the owner and developer of the 108 North Main Street project, “We are excited to announce The City Eats Food Hall where food lovers can have their choice of chef inspired casual food in a community table setting all under one roof. Some of the eight vendors include a bakery and dessert booth, Asian inspired street food, Fusion tacos, wine and beer all located in a beautiful historic downtown building.” He continues, “This foodie destination will have vendors serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and have tasty food to satisfy everyone from the young folks to the older adults. City Eats will feature live entertainment and host fun-filled events throughout the year. For those wanting to be a part of downtown Temple’s exciting growth on a regular basis, the developers will also feature City Life downtown apartments above the City Eats Food Hall. These apartments will be designed as the old world style meets the modern amenities. Each apartment will feature two large bedrooms and two beautiful bathrooms with unique kitchens perfect for the food aficionado. The apartments will be 1000 to 2000 square feet each.”