Mural effort brightens alleys

Wednesday, October 22, 2003
The mural at the Carpet Shoppe is part of an effort to brighten up the city's downtown alleys.

Members of the DIG-IT (Develop, Improve, Grow - It's Time) committee are looking for new ways to encourage people to take the time and visit the downtown businesses.

Over the course of recent years the committee has focused its efforts on developing highly visible physical improvements to serve as a catalyst for the downtown's future success and hopes of building an ever stronger business community.

New sidewalks, intersection crossings, lighting and trees, as well as artistic banners have all added an eye-catching appeal.

The committee recognized an opportunity to add new life to the downtown area by taking advantage of the alleyways. Upgrading the alleyways can create an attractive pedestrian spine through the downtown core and has the potential to become an intensive retailing area. The rear facades of the buildings can easily become a canvas for public art.

That idea held special appeal to Carpet Shoppe owner Gin Prouty.

The business now sports new murals along two alleyway walls. Artist Randy Miller created the two paintings and showed his own sense of whimsy by tucking in a painting of tiny mouse as well as that of a bat flying among the rafters.

Prouty has often shown her strong support of the downtown revitalization plans, being one of the first to step forward to carry the proposals to fruition. She was among the first to sign up for the rehabilitated sidewalk project.

DIG-IT members hope more business property owners will show their enthusiasm for the public art project. A number of communities across the nation have earned recognition for the murals that adorn the outside walls of their businesses. Mountain Home has the potential to do the same.

Other efforts to encourage people to linger in the downtown area include a plan to purchase benches. The benches are to be placed at selected sites and will compliment the existing downtown improvements.

The committee is also developing plans for gateway enhancements at I-84 exits 90 and 95. Hoping to attract travelers from the interstate, each exit would display different theme.

Freestanding art could be used to show our historical background or depict some of the activities available for those who wish to "play in our big backyard."

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