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Community Design and Development Report – Fall 2005

Table of Content

Profile of Community……………………………………………………………… Page 3 Community Contact Information………………………………………...... ……... Page 7 City Council and Mayoral Registry……………………………………………….. Page 8 Demographic Information………………………………………………….. ……... Page 9 Community History……………………………………………………………….. Page 11 Identification and Evaluation of Existing Resources……………………….………Page 12 Recommendation of ‘New Resources’…………………………………........ ……... Page 19 Case Studies………………………………………………………………………... Page 30 Survey……………………………………………………………………………… Page 32 Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………. Page 34 Bibliography………………………………………………………………………... Page 35 Appendix A for Rehabilitation Tips...........................................................................Page 38 Appendix B for Example Sign Guidelines from Clawson…………………………..Page 40

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Profile of Community Location

County Seat of Hale County Located on Runningwater Draw at the intersection of Interstate 27, U.S. highways 87

and 70, and State Highway 194 47 miles north of Lubbock 76 miles south of Amarillo

Railroads

Burlington Northern and Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe

Population

1970: 19,096 1980: 22,187 1990: 21,336 2000: 22,336 2004: 25,200 2005: approx. 22,000

Climate

The climate in Plainview varies from 53 degrees in January to 91 degrees in July. The average annual temperature (degrees) 68 Annual Average Rainfall (inches) 14” Annual Average Snowfall (inches) 5-10” Days Between Killing Frost 205 Days Over 90 Degrees 76 Heating Degree Days Total 3,400 Cooling Degree Days Total 1,750

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Recreational Activities

Plainview County Club Golf Course (18 holes) Museum of the Llano Estacado Twelve parks Two libraries One hundred and ten civic clubs Civic Theatre Abraham Art Gallery Plainview Symphonic Orchestra Fair Theater Community concerts

Amenities In The Surrounding Area

Lake McKenzie White River Lake Buffalo Springs Lake Lake Theo Palo Duro State Park Boating, Fishing Hunting: Pheasant, Quail, Dove Caprock Canyon State Park

Educational Facilities Numerous educational facilities exist in Plainview. The school budget for the 2004-2005 year was $37 million: Number of Enrolled

Pre-K through 4th 6 2,611 5th 1 442 6th 1 446 7th 1 453 8th 1 402 9th through 12th 1 1,417 Private Pre-K through 12 1 150 Wayland Baptist University 1 1,036 South Plains College N/A N/A

Media Coverage

Delivery of two out of town newspapers Daily Newspaper: Plainview Daily Herald Two AM radio stations Three FM stations Telegraph Service First Class Post Office

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Banking

Five banks with assets totaling $351 million. Housing

The typical lot size in Plainview is 70x130 square feet. The typical lot cost is anywhere from $75-$250 per front foot. Existing homes can cost between $32-$58 per square foot New homes may cost between $52-$85.

Health Care

One hospital, Covenant Hospital, with 100 beds Eight clinics Thirty doctors Ten dentists Five Rest Homes with 300 beds Two Retirement Centers with 72 rooms

Agricultural Products

Agriculture is a major priority in Plainview. Hale County is 1st in cotton production in Texas and 3rd in the United States. Cotton helped generate $4 billion in the South Plains. The major products harvested are:

♦ Cotton 259,204 Acres harvested ♦ Wheat 68,000 ♦ Corn 20,477 ♦ Grain Sorghum 11,000 ♦ Ensilage 2,400 ♦ Oats 1,487 ♦ Soybean 576 ♦ Sunflower 468

There are 1,123,332 Cattle slaughtered annually. Food processing in the area includes:

♦ Onions ♦ Carrots ♦ Peppers ♦ Watermelons ♦ Cucumbers ♦ Corn ♦ Cantaloupe ♦ Potatoes

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♦ Tortilla Factory ♦ Cargill Meat Solutions ♦ Corn Milling ♦ Peanuts ♦ Sunflowers

Work Force

♦ The work force of Plainview includes a radius of 50 miles. ♦ The work force in the county includes about 17,416 people. ♦ There are around 2,299 jobs available.

- Annual Number High School Graduates (County) 500 - Annual Number of College Graduates (WBU) 170 - Manufacturing Employment 2,668 - County Average Weekly Manufacturing Wage $526 - Manufacturing Workers in Unions 0

∗ More information on the city can be found at www.plainviewtex.com ∗ Plainview and Hale County 2005-2006 Community Profile available at the Chamber of

Commerce.

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Community Contact Paula Hedrick

Coordinator of CVB and the Main Street Program Phone: (806) 296-1119

(806) 729-8472 Email: phedrick@ci.plainview.tx.us Office: 901 Broadway

Plainview, TX 79072

Other Helpful Contacts Jim Ferrell

Chamber of Commerce Email: plainviewchamber@texasonline.net

John Castro

Community Services/Planning and Zoning Email: jcastro@ci.plainview.tx.us

Linda Milner

RSVP Coordinator Email: rsvp@texasonline.net

Greg Ingham

City Manager Email: gingham@ci.plainview.tx.us

Rusty Reece

Parks Advisory Board Email: rreece@ci.plainview.tx.us

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City Council and Mayoral Registry Plainview was chartered on July 3, 1888 and was designated as the county seat of Hale County, Texas. The city was later incorporated in 1907. Plainview is designated by the State of Texas as a home rule city. This means that the city can depend on their constitutional and statutory powers to pass and enforce ordinances. The Mayor is elected at-large by the citizens and the rest of the seven members making up the City Council are elected by their own districts. These members serve 4 year terms. Plainview adopted a Council/Manager form of government in 1964. The council elects a City Manager to carry out the City Council’s decisions. Mayor and City Council John C. Anderson Mayor Kelvin Tipton Precinct One Mary Jane Shanes Precinct Two Belinda Pena Precinct Three John Bertsch Precinct Four Ron Trusler Precinct Five Wendell Dunlap Precinct Six Rowland Nash Precinct Seven Greg Ingham City Manager ∗ Information taken from www.ci.plainview.tx.us

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Demographics

38%

57%

3% 2%

AngloHispanicAfrican AmericanOther

0

5000

1970 1980 1990 2000 2004 2005

Year

10000

15000

20000

25000

30000

Popu

latio

n (T

hous

ands

)

Populations: 1970: 19,096 1980: 22,187 1990: 21,336 2000: 22,336 2004: 25,200 2005: approx. 22,000 Race Composition: Anglo: 13,984 (38%) Hispanic: 20,976 (57%) African American: 1,030 (2.8%) Other: 809 (2.2%)

29%

12%

13%

20%

26%

Age Composition: 0-17: 10,996 (29.8%) 18-24: 4,317 (11.7%) 25-34: 4,613 (12.5%) 35-49: 7,196 (19.5%) 50+: 9,778 (26.5%)

0 to 1718 to 2425 to 3435 to 4950 and older

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26%

67%

6% 0%1%

Anglo

Hispanic

African American

Native-American

Asian/Pacific Islander

Plainview ISD Composition: Anglo: 25.5% Hispanic: 67.8% African American: 5.9% Native-American: 0.3% Asian/Pacific Islander: 0.5% Plainview Employment (2002 numbers): Labor Force: 11,303 Employment: 10,838 Unemployment: 465 Unemployment Rate: 4.3

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Community History In 1886 Z. T. Maxwell moved with his family and 2,000 sheep from Floyd County and established a farm in what is now northeast Hale County. About the same time Edwin Lowden Lowe from Tennessee took up residence north of the Maxwell homestead. Maxwell and Lowe secured a post office on March 18, 1887. The names Running Water and Hackberry Grove were thrown out as names for the community, but the name Plainview won since a vast treeless plain surrounded the post office. The town received a charter on July 3, 1888. Plainview became the county seat for Hale County and the first courthouse was soon completed. After the first year, the town grew to a population of 75 and had a hotel, a Methodist Church, and Thornton Jones’s store. In October 1889, John Davidson and D. B. Hill established the first newspaper, Hale County Hesperian. The first school was also established in 1889. By 1892, the community had four churches, two hotels, a seminary, a newspaper, stagecoach service, several businesses, and a population totaling 250. The Pecos and Northern Texas Railway came in 1906 and brought an agricultural boom to Plainview and the surrounding areas. The city incorporated in 1907 and the population reached 3,000 by 1910. The economic district was home to 90 businesses, including 20 land agencies. Wayland Baptist University was established in 1909 after Dr. John H. Wayland gave forty acres of land and $10,000 to found the school. Early crops in Plainview included corn, maize, sorghum, millet, alfalfa, vegetables, wheat, and fruit. Cotton was introduced in 1903. The Schick Opera House was built in 1911. By 1925 the city’s population numbered 7,500. Plainview was unique in that it rested almost entirely on an agricultural economic base. In 1971 Missouri Beef Packers opened a large beef-processing plant near Plainview. The Hale County Historical Commission was founded in Plainview in 1963. In the 1980s, Plainview had 395 businesses. The community continued to grow and in 1990 had a population of 21, 700. Plainview is now a thriving agricultural area. It has many agricultural opportunities to offer as well as industrial. There are many opportunities and activities available to its residents. It is still a young city and has room to grow! ∗ Information taken from the Handbook of Texas Online

(www.tsha.utexas.edu/handbook/online/articles/PP/hep10.html)

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Identification and Evaluation of Existing Resources Economic Development

Agriculture Job Market Plainview has a wide variety of agricultural development going on within its city

limits. This is a great blessing to the community and contributes to a large portion of the job market.

Businesses include: − ADA Milling-Harvest Queen Mill (producing industrial Milo Starch)

∗ Employs 20-25 people − Agro Distribution (producing fertilizer, Ag chemicals, seeds)

∗ Employs 10 people − Atteberry Grain (Grain Elevators & Storage)

∗ Employs 15 people − Azteca Milling Company (producing Maza Flour)

∗ Employs 231 people − Browning Seed, Inc. (producing field seed)

∗ Employs 18 people − Casa Rica Foods (producing corn & flour tortillas and chips)

∗ Employs 30 people − Cargill Meat Solutions (producing boxed beef and beef bi-products)

∗ Employs 1,850 people − Coffey Forage Seeds, Inc. (research Hy-Bred seed)

∗ Employs 12 people − Dairy Fountain

∗ Employs 8 people − Fox Dairy

∗ Employs 11 people − Hale County Compress

∗ Employs 6 people − Hi Plains Millwright (Grain elevators, feedmill & fabrication)

∗ Employs 75 people − Legacy Farms

∗ Employs 10 people − Martin Resources (producing fertilizer)

∗ Employs 40 people − Panhandle Popcorn Corporation (producing raw and popped popcorn)

∗ Employs 5 people

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− Peanut Corporation of America (producing processed peanuts) ∗ Employs 10 people

− Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. (seed production, sales & research) ∗ Employs 61 people

− Plainview Acid Delinting Co. (producing cotton seed) ∗ Employs 12 people

− Plainview Co-op Compress (cotton receiving, storage & shipping) ∗ Employs 35 people

− Production Plus (selling of seed) ∗ Employs 20 people

− Shield Chemical (producing Ag oil) ∗ Employs 4 people

− United Farm Industries (Agri-business) ∗ Employs 32 people

− Vista Grande Dairy ∗ Employs 34 people

Industrial Services Business includes: − Wal-Mart Regional Distribution Center

∗ Employs 1,010 people

Health Care Businesses include: − Care Inn of Plainview

∗ Employs 42 people − Covenant Hospital

∗ Employs 320 people − Plainview Health Care

∗ Employs 75 people − Prairie House Living Center

∗ Employs 160 people − Santa Fe House

∗ Employs 11 people − South Plains Health Provider Organization

∗ Employs 146 people − Vista Care Family Hospice

∗ Employs 30

Banking Businesses include: − American State Bank

∗ Employs 19 people − Hale County State Bank

∗ Employs 80 people − Security Bank

∗ Employs 9 people

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− State National Bank of West Texas

∗ Employs 11 people − Wells Fargo Bank, Plainview, N.A.

∗ Employs 32 people Attractions

Retail Shopping in Plainview helps generate revenue for the city. It also attracts tourism and promotes city life. Plainview’s charm comes from its off beat shops and unique products. Some well known retail shops in the area include: − J.C. Penny Outlet Store − Sears − Kristi’s − Masso’s − Warrick’s Furniture − The Antique District

∗ Old World Antiques ∗ Horton Antiques ∗ Antiques by Billie ∗ Broadway Craft and Antique Mall ∗ Uniques & Antiques ∗ Moore’s Antiques & Décor ∗ Granny’s Antiques & Collectibles

Cattle Drive The cows that adorn the city of Plainview

are a project that began in 2000 as a way to promote tourism and city pride.

There are around 48 fiberglass cows scattered throughout the city.

The cows create a unique environment. There are maps available for people who

would like to take on the challenge to find all the cattle.

Entertainment

Plainview offers many fun amenities that everyone, including locals, may not be aware of. − Museum of the Llano Estacado

∗ This museum shows the development of the Llano Estacado area in terms of geology, culture, and economy. It is also a major learning resource for area school systems as well as Wayland Baptist University. Admission is free.

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− The Fair Theater ∗ The Fair Theater was renovated in 1999. This theater showcases plays, variety

acts, concerts, beauty pageants, and community events. It has the ability to seat 400 people.

− Plainview Symphony Orchestra ∗ Plainview is the smallest town in Texas to have a full symphony orchestra to

call its own. − Hunting

∗ Plainview offers hunting to the community. It boasts that it has the best pheasant hunting in West Texas.

∗ Information taken from Plainview’s Chamber of Commerce Industrial Guide ∗ Information taken from www.plainviewtex.com Community Involvement

Service Groups Plainview has a wide variety of service groups helping throughout the community.

The list is quite lengthy. There is something for everyone. A complete list is available at the Chamber of Commerce.

A sample of the many organizations available: − Boy Scouts of America

∗ Troop 250 is located in Plainview. Boy Scouts is the nation’s best youth program for character development and value-based leadership training. Their mission is to prepare people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetime.

∗ Visit http://www.scouting.org/ for additional information. − Business and Professional Women

∗ The Business and Professional Women Foundation’s vision is to help working-women to achieve their full potential, helping to establish successful workplaces.

∗ Visit http://www.bpwusa.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3267 for additional information.

− Caprock Girl Scout Council ∗ Caprock Council “traces its roots to Lubbock, Texas, created in 1939 with the

purpose of inspiring girls with the highest ideals of character, conduct, patriotism and service so they can become happy, resourceful citizens.”

∗ Visit http://www.girlscoutscaprock.com/about.asp for additional information.

− ELKS #1175 ∗ The ELKS mission statement is to “instill the principles of Charity, Justice,

Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize a belief in God; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its members; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; to cultivate good fellowship; to perpetuate itself as a fraternal organization, and to provide for its government, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America will serve the people

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and communities through benevolent programs, demonstrating that Elks Care and Elks Share.”

∗ Visit http://www.elks.org/default.cfm for additional information. − Habitat for Humanity

∗ Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit Christian housing ministry. Through the help of volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds and rehabilitates houses with the help of the homeowner families. The houses are sold to families at no profit, financed with affordable, no-interest loans. Habitat is not a giveaway program. In addition to a down payment and the monthly mortgage payments, homeowners invest hundreds of hours of their own labor into building their Habitat house.

∗ Visit http://www.habitat.org/default.aspx for additional information. − Hale County Senior Citizens Association

∗ The Senior Citizens Association is available for people who are 50 or older, or are married to someone that falls into this category. At the Senior Citizens’ Center members can take aerobics, learn arts and crafts, play pool, dominoes, or bridge, and associate with their friends. Health Screens are available along with hot meals.

∗ The center is located at 12th and Smyth. − Humane Society

∗ The Humane Society is a non-profit organization that specializes in the adoption of cats and dogs, as well as kittens and puppies. Its employees are all volunteers.

∗ Visit http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/plvhumane.html for additional information.

− Junior League of Plainview ∗ The Junior League is an organization of women helping to develop

voluntarism and the potential of women. Their purpose is educational and charitable.

∗ Visit http://www.ajli.org/?nd=home for additional information. − P.E.O.

∗ P.E.O. is a unique sisterhood that helps to support and encourage women to realize their potential in whatever they feel worthwhile. The organization actively helps to promote educational opportunities for women.

∗ Visit http://www.peointernational.org/ for additional information. − PTA

∗ PTA is made up of teachers, parents, and others with an interest in children. Children whose parents are involved in PTA have a better chance of achieving in school and the parents become more involved and informed.

∗ Visit http://www.txpta.org/index.html for additional information. − RSVP

∗ RSVP stands for Retired & Senior Volunteer Program. This program provides volunteer opportunities for people that are 55 years old or over. The Runningwater Draw RSVP covers the Floyd, Hale and Lamb counties.

∗ Visit http://seniorservice.org/runningwater_draw_rsvp.com

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− Rotary ∗ Rotary International is an international service organization founded in

Chicago in 1905. It is composed mostly of business and professional men. They operate within their communities in a variety of activities that provide needed services with the aim of improving the community's quality of life.

∗ Visit http://www.lib.utexas.edu/taro/ttusw/00010/tsw-00010.html for additional information.

− United Way ∗ The United Way is an organization whose mission is to improve the caring

power of communities in America. Along with fundraising, the United Way works with a variety of people to identify and resolve important community issues.

∗ Visit http://national.unitedway.org/ for additional information.

Housing

Plainview Vistas Plainview Vistas are new, affordable housing for a portion of Plainview’s

population. Plainview Vistas will help the population that makes too much money to qualify for low-income housing, but can not find decent housing because there hasn’t been any available. This is a great improvement to add to the housing needs in Plainview.

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Recreation

Plainview has over 12 parks in its community. Hike and Bike Trail

Plainview is working to establish a Hike and Bike Trail. It will connect Runningwater Draw Park and Broadway Park. The trail will run primarily along Runningwater Draw and will include a loop in each park. The path will be 10 feet wide to allow for both pedestrian use and bicycle traffic. The trail will also include two gazebos for resting, a bridge that goes over a low water crossing, and benches along the trail to allow for rest. The project will also be lit for evening use. The completion date is currently set for March 2007.

Grants available to help finish the Hike and Bike Trail: − TRPA Trail Grants: recreational trail grants

∗ For additional information visit http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/business/grants/trpa/#trail.

− TxDOT State Wide Transportation Enhancement Program ∗ For additional information visit

http://www.dot.state.tx.us/des/step/introduction.htm.

∗ Map of proposed Hike and Bike Trail area.

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Recommendation for ‘New Resources’ Housing

Improvement/Clean-up Many houses around the Downtown area are starting to look run down and

cluttered, taking away from the charm of Plainview and the appeal of Downtown. The city currently utilizes several grants from the office of Rural Community Affairs

under the Community Development Block Grant program. New paint for these buildings as well as just a simple clean up will really show the

charm of these areas around the downtown district. A city fundraiser could raise funds for painting and small improvements, perhaps

even a fundraiser that already currently exists. The funds could be redirected to housing clean-up for this one time.

Examples of clutter and painting needs

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Housing availability There seems to be an availability of $20,000 houses and $100,000 houses, but the need

for $40,000-$60,000 homes is not being met. This information seems to be supported by the statistic that the median household

income is $31,551 (note this is a 1999 statistic). − The community may establish an incentive program for builders to build in this

price range. − A design committee may be established for the area of finding builders that will

build in the price range Plainview is wanting. ∗ The board could set standards for what they will accept and create building

incentives for these builders to come to Plainview and build a quality product at the right price.

∗ If the builders meet the design requirements then they are given a certain incentive.

∗ It is important for Plainview to decide what it wants and to not let the builders control what lines Plainview’s streets.

− Case studies of other communities that have developed housing in this market may also be beneficial.

Generating Tourism

Signage There are good signs that already exist in Downtown

clearly marking the downtown area. This helps somewhat with navigation.

Most of Plainview’s business comes from east and west via Highway 70, or 5th Street.

It seems difficult to draw shoppers off of I-27 because they do not get to experience much of the city from the highway.

In order to promote Plainview’s Downtown: − More signage could be useful along 5th Street

promoting businesses in Downtown. − Signage could be useful close to the interstate so

that when travelers pull off to fill up their cars with gas, they will see the signs for the great shopping in Downtown. ∗ These signs should be distinctive and clearly stand out from the highway

signs. ∗ They should promote the character of

Plainview’s downtown district. Perhaps a sign similar to the ones that

already exist in Downtown. ∗ With these signs a traveler will always

know if they are headed in the correct direction.

− There are a few signs to help with way finding, but not enough to really attract the vehicles that stop close to the highway.

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− Attention should be drawn to the downtown district. − A billboard closer to the actual city of Plainview may also be helpful. One

billboard promoting Plainview’s Antique District is located about 10 minutes away from actually entering into the heart of Plainview. ∗ An additional billboard would remind travelers of what they saw earlier and

keep the idea of stopping and shopping in Plainview fresh in their minds.

Downtown Heritage Walking Tour There are some very interesting historical markers sprinkled throughout the

downtown district. This was also a suggestion from the Resource

Team Report for Plainview that was completed in 1981. − Historical landmarks are present; however

more research may be done to include commercial buildings in this tour.

− This is a good way for locals and tourists to become familiar with the area. The more familiar they are with an area, the more they will want to return.

− Getting tourists and locals to walk around the downtown will help with retail sales because they will already be in this area.

− Creating a small map for this idea could promote it best. ∗ There may be many sites that even

residents of Plainview did not realize they had within their great city.

∗ Knowing the history of Plainview can create more pride within the city.

Heritage Tourism Grants are available through the Texas Historical Commission.

Visit http://www.thc.state.tx.us/grantsincent/grapdf/THCGrantGuide.pdf for additional information.

Hotels Plainview has a large amount of hotels for its size, ten to be exact. These hotels could be useful for athletic games for out of town teams and fans

coming to watch Wayland’s sports. Plainview is currently utilizing the Hotel/Motel Tax. In order to keep tourism in the downtown area it would be nice to restore the Hilton

Hotel, built in 1929. − It is currently vacant and rundown. − Restoring this could make it a destination spot where people would want to

come and stay.

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− This building is located about one block away from Broadway. If people were allowed to stay in this area they would be right next to their shopping destinations.

− Also, there is a lack of restaurants in the downtown area, if the hotel was re-opened, perhaps a restaurant that is open into the evening could be placed in the lower level. This would help generate income for the hotel and allow anyone to utilize the hotel, not just guests.

The Hamilton Hotel in Laredo, TX is an excellent example of what Plainview can accomplish with its Hilton Hotel. − Laredo is using a public/private ownership to help restore its historic hotel. − It is now a low-income housing unit for the elderly, of which two thirds live in

poverty. − Laredo used funding from the Departments of Housing and Urban Development

and Interior, as well as funds from state and local housing agencies, and the City of Laredo.

− For more information on Laredo’s Hamilton Hotel visit http://www.huduser.org/research/histwin2002.html.

Plainview could help to restore its Hilton Hotel in the same manner, incorporating a

restaurant on the bottom level, low-income housing for the elderly with meals being served and health scans, as well as offering a few rooms for people who want to stay in such a historic hotel.

The Hilton Hotel in Plainview, TX Hamilton Hotel in Laredo, TX Images from www.texasescapes.com

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Restoring Downtown

Foliage Sidewalks in the downtown area are large (approx. 20 feet). The width of the

sidewalk can be overpowering since there are no current trees or foliage to break up the pavement.

The sidewalk can also get very hot, hindering the will to go shopping. Introducing some modest trees and foliage to the area will help to bring down the

scale of downtown to a more human level. − Small trees could be placed along curbs, creating a visual protection barrier

between the vehicles in the street and the pedestrians on the sidewalk. − Grass or small shrubbery could also bring a more human feel to the downtown

area. These additions would help the environment to seem less harsh and more inviting.

The Texas Capital Fund Main Street Improvements Program, part of the Texas Department of Agriculture may be helpful. − Visit

http://www.agr.state.tx.us/eco/rural_eco_devo/capital_fund/fin_street_improvements.htm for additional information.

The Texas Capital Fund Downtown Revitalization Program may also be helpful. − Visit

http://www.agr.state.tx.us/eco/rural_eco_devo/capital_fund/fin_downtown.htm for additional information.

Current Downtown Sidewalk:

Revised Downtown Sidewalk:

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Benches/Trash Receptacles Since Plainview has ample sized sidewalks several intimate seating areas would be a

nice addition. These areas would provide a nice atmosphere for people to stop and rest. Introducing benches to the area could help promote interaction between people on

the street and allow for people to sit and people watch. − Benches do not have to set up everywhere, but in small contained areas. − Trash receptacles that match and help to unify Downtown would be beneficial

for helping to encourage trash placement and would also add to the character of downtown.

− If people want to sit outside and have their lunch on these benches, trash receptacles are important for the disposal of waste.

The Texas Capital Fund Main Street Improvements Program, part of the Texas Department of Agriculture may be helpful. − Visit

http://www.agr.state.tx.us/eco/rural_eco_devo/capital_fund/fin_street_improvements.htm for additional information.

The Texas Capital Fund Downtown Revitalization Program may also be helpful. − Visit

http://www.agr.state.tx.us/eco/rural_eco_devo/capital_fund/fin_downtown.htm for additional information.

Current Sidewalk/Seating Availability:

Revised Area with Benches and Trash Receptacles:

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Building Façade Improvements Plainview definitely has that small town charm. It is interesting to go and see the

mixture of building types and facades that are located in Downtown. These areas are starting to need some improvements and repairs to keep them

looking their best and inviting to people who are in the downtown area. − A simple new paint job will take care of many of the restorations − Local fundraising will help with this task. − Perhaps a matching grant program could be created between the city and local

businesses for some small repairs. Examples of deterioration

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Restoring the Granada Theater

Restoring the Granada Theater to its original use of a small, single screen movie theater would help to bring people and revenue into the area, even in the evenings.

This would also be a nice addition to the entertainment list that Plainview currently offers.

It is currently vacant and sitting on Broadway, the predominant street in Downtown. This would also be a nice activity for the college students that are currently located

in Plainview. They may travel to Lubbock or Amarillo for their entertainment, so why not keep their money in Plainview? − It does not have to be open every night, maybe only on the weekends. − This would also create a few more jobs in the downtown area.

The Granada opened in November of 1929. − The Palace Theater in Canadian, TX is a good case study to look at. It has been

recently redone. The Palace Theater is about 80 years old. − Visit www.palacetheatre.com for further information.

Pictures taken from www.palacetheatre.com

The love for the Granada Theater once existed. This is a portion of a Guest Column by Dwight Young about the Granada: − “The Granada was different. Nowadays I’d call it a movie palace; back then, I

just knew it was a vast and wonderful place where yelling was unthinkable. A ceiling studded with dim stars was suspended over walls that simulated a castle, with Spanish shawls draped over fake balconies and dripping fountains set into niches. At the center of it all was a screen of truly monumental dimensions, thundering with the exploits of pirates, knights, Walt Disney characters, and atomic-mutant monsters on a rampage. I distinctly remember more than one afternoon when I thought, sitting there in the plushly upholstered splendor of the Granada, ‘I wish the whole world was like this’.” ∗ www.texasescapes.com/Preservation/Perfect-Worlds-Donna-Reed-n-

Granada-Theater-Plainview-Texas.htm − With such a vivid impression made on one person, it is hard to not want to

recreate this magic in Plainview again. There is no current fund for theater restoration so city fundraising is usually how

tasks like this are accomplished. There are funds provided by the Texas Preservation Trust Fund for planning money. − Visit http://www.thc.state.tx.us/forms/tptf/TPTFGrantApp05.pdf for

additional information.

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Restaurants There are currently only two main restaurants in Plainview’s downtown: Rocking

“R” Steakhouse and Quick Lunch. A larger variety of restaurants that are actually located in Downtown could be

beneficial. The 1981 Team Report suggested that both shopper and merchant surveys indicated

a strong desire for more restaurants in the downtown area. − A restaurant that is open later would be a nice benefit. This would help people to

use the downtown in the evenings, building on the idea of the Granada Theater and improving the use of Downtown.

− Nicer restaurants, more “sit down” based would be beneficial. − There are several vacant “anchor” buildings in the downtown area that could be

a nice area for a restaurant to develop. This would allow for visual connection to people and at the same time draw people into the downtown area.

− Since a large percentage of restaurants fail in the first year, as suggested by the 1981 Team Report, the Plainview Downtown Association should create a Restaurant Recruitment Committee. ∗ The committee should visit and research other successful restaurants in

similar towns. ∗ The committee could offer incentives for a restaurant to come into the

downtown area instead of continuing to build on the west side of I-27. − Creating a better restaurant list in downtown will also help to keep customers in

the downtown area to shop more. − As suggested by the 1981 Team Report, merchants in the downtown area should

work with the new restaurant by creating extended store hours during special events or holidays to generate traffic in the area.

Currently Existing Restaurants: Rocking “R” Steakhouse Quick Lunch

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Area Available for New Restaurants:

This is an empty anchor store in the downtown area. It is directly across from the Courthouse and visible from 5th Street. It is an important building to develop.

Signage Broadway Street is very long and overpowering at times. The building facades are flat and a pedestrian may feel lost on where to go because

they cannot see any signs until they are directly in front of the store. − Small hanging signs that protrude from the building would be very beneficial. − This would make the shops easier to spot and help with way finding in the

downtown district. − Also, small containers that issued maps placed very sporadically along the

sidewalks may help if they are trying to find a particular store. − City fundraising as well as matching grants with businesses would be beneficial

for the improvement of signage in the downtown area. Small signs that hang under the existing canopies in Plainview’s Downtown would

be a very simple and beneficial touch to the shopping area. It makes it easier to see the location of stores without being on the opposite side of the street.

* See Case Studies for examples as well as the photos below*

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Current Signage Issues:

∗ The signs are flat and very hard to see from in other direction other than straight on. Proposed Signage (Case Study): ∗ Mineola, TX (pictures from Texas Main Street Center)

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Case Studies Examples of Foliage Meeting Street in Charleston Southlake Town Square

Redmond Town Center Princeton Forrestal Village

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Examples of Benches

Renaissance Place in Highland Park, Illinois Examples of Signage

Kentlands Market Square in Gaithersburg, Maryland

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Survey

What areas of Plainview would you like to see improved?

The area in most need of improvement in Plainview would be the Frisco area. Unfortunately, it is entirely in a flood plain and would require buildup of a minimum of 9 feet in some places. The next area would be in the Central Business District. This is the original part of town that while the houses were majestic in their day, they have deteriorated badly. In the majority of cases the houses have been filled with the westward migration that occurs in most small towns. These new owners barely have the means to pay utilities and taxes. All older parts of town need refurbishment.

Plainview needs to update our software to integrate GIS into the Planning & Zoning process. The ability to communicate across departments has improved in the last few years but is still not there yet. Technology is the key to providing timely and effective service to customers.

Plainview is pretty balanced for parks. They have 10 neighborhood parks, 1 regional park, 4 mini parks and are in the process of a 5 mile hike and bike trail that extends from one side of town to the other.

Plainview needs better local fishing opportunities for our citizens. The retail sector of our community needs to improve. The days of the "Mom and Pop"

businesses are gradually disappearing so encouragement is needed for small businesses to open here and hopefully some of the empty buildings will be filled. Retail is shifting to the Wal-Marts, Target, and other chain operated businesses.

Plainview has been fortunate to attract new industry to our city with dairies and other businesses, and that needs to continue. Diversity of our local economy is the key. That's what we need to work on.

What are your goals for the growth of Plainview?

Plainview is on the threshold of greatness. With the addition of Plainview Vistas we should see an increase in our population to a tune of approximately 1,000. Plainview still needs more affordable housing. There is a segment of Plainview’s population that makes enough money to afford decent housing but that housing is not available; however they are above the threshold to qualify for low-income housing. If Plainview were an “enterprise city”, we could do a lot for our population in the way of decent housing.

Our population make up is changing and we need businesses that will satisfy that need, both retail and industry. With Wayland Baptist University located here, it certainly helps

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provide services and entertainment. South Plains College has opened a campus here and that will help provide more educational opportunities.

Plainview needs to continue to meet the needs of the citizens of Plainview, present and future. Some goals are to complete the revision of the Park Comprehensive Plan and to make every effort to see the plan accomplished.

Plainview should continue the effort of up grading our playgrounds that provide a challenging and fun experience to the user.

Plainview is striving to meet the needs for additional softball and baseball practice field. It would be nice if every interest/recreational needs of our citizens was provided for, from

horseshoe pitching to frisbee golf. Plainview needs to expand our industrial and agriculture base (which along with cotton and

corn is becoming focused on the dairy industry); to grow our secure long-range water supply; Develop and revitalize downtown Plainview; improve business retention and attract new businesses; and improve visual image of Plainview along all major thoroughfares and gateways.

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Conclusion

Plainview, TX is a unique small town in the Texas Panhandle. With its location between Lubbock and Amarillo it serves as a small hub for all of the surrounding small towns, especially from its east and west. It has so much more available to its residents and tourists than what meets the eye. Plainview’s population has dropped slightly in the past. The intent of this report is to not “redo” Plainview, but to help the town to get back on track and move forward with its Main Street Program and the whole community in general. The suggestions made in this report do not have to be completed all at once, but being aware of the improvements that could be made to Plainview is a step in the right direction. The suggestions can be divided into long term and short term goals. Short Term Goals:

♦ Finish the Hike and Bike Trail that is already in the works ♦ Add more signage to direct vehicles and pedestrians to the downtown area

♦ Paint and improve the outside appearances of buildings in the downtown area as

well as homes in the nearby streets.

♦ Add some greenery to the streets of the downtown area creating shade and adding to the aesthetic quality of this portion of the city

♦ Add additional signage under canopies to help locate businesses more efficiently

Long Term Goals:

♦ Restore the Granada Theater to its original splendor ♦ Revitalize the Hilton Hotel so that it can be of use again

♦ Work on Low-Income housing, and housing that falls in the $40,000-$60,000 range

Remember to establish your own identity. Start with the smaller projects and work up to the

larger ones. Identify what makes your community special and build on this. The perfect remedy for all your problems will not just come along; this is something that takes time, care, and belief that you can turn your city into what you want it to be. It is important to stay positive and realize that everything will come along. It is important to stay realistic about the expectations and outcomes that can be achieved during a certain amount of time. Plainview has an excellent skeleton to work with. It has numerous resources; this report is just about enhancing what is already there.

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<http://www.elks.org/default.cfm>. Bohl, Charles C. Place Making: Developing Town Centers, Main Streets, and Urban Villages.

Washington D.C.: Urban Land Institute, 2002. Boy Scouts of America National Council. The Boy Scouts of America. 27 Nov. 2005

<http://www.scouting.org>. Business and Professional Women/USA. 2005. BPW/USA and BPW Foundation. 27 November

2005 <http://www.bpwusa.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3267>. Clawson Sign Guidelines. 1995. National Trust for Historic Preservation. 27 Nov. 2005

<http://www.ci.clawson.mi.us/Website%20PDF/DDA/Sign%20Guidelines.pdf>. City of Plainview Texas. City of Plainview. 15 Sept. 2005 <http://www.ci.planview.tx.us>. Girl Scouts Caprock Council. 30 Nov. 2005. Girl Scouts of Caprock Council. 27 Nov. 2005

<http://www.girlschoutscaprcok.com/about.asp>. Habitat for Humanity. 2005. Habitat for Humanity International. 27 Nov. 2005

<http://www.habitat.org/default.aspx>. HUD USER. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Policy

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Industrial Guide. Plainview: Chamber of Commerce. Main Street. 2005. National Trust for Historic Preservation. 27 Nov. 2005

<http://www.mainstreet.org>. Museum of the Llano Estacado. Plainview: Chamber of Commerce, City of Plainview, and

Wayland Baptist University. Palace Theatre. Manchester Palace Theatre. 27 Nov. 2005 <http://www.palacetheatre.com>. P.E.O. International. 1995. P.E.O. Sisterhood. 27 Nov. 2005

<http://www.peointernational.org/>.

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Plainview Chamber of Commerce. Plainview Chamber of Commerce. 15 Sept. 2005 <http://www.plainviewtex.com>.

Plainview & Hale County 2005-2006 Community Profile. Plainview: Chamber of Commerce,

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<http://www.petfinder.com/shelters.plvhumane.html>. Plainview’s Own Cattle Drive. Plainview: CVB Director. Plainview The Lone Star of Texas. Map. Plainview Chamber of Commerce. Resource Team Report for Plainview, Texas. Plainview: National Main Street Center, 1981. Rotary International. Texas Tech University. 27 Nov. 2005

<http://www.lib.utexas.edu/taro/ttusw/00010/tsw-00010.html>. RSVP Enrollment Booklet. Plainview: Runningwater Draw RSVP. Statewide Transportation Enhancement Program. 2005. TxDOT. 28 Nov. 2005

<http://www.dot.state.tx.us/des/step/introduction.htm>. Texas Capital Fund Downtown Revitalization Program. Texas Department of Agriculture. 28

Nov. 2005 <http://www.agr.state.tx.us/eco/rural_eco_devo/capital_fund/fin_downtown.htm>.

Texas Capital Fund Main Street Improvements Program. Texas Department of Agriculture. 28

Nov. 2005 <http://www.agr.state.tx.us/eco/rural_eco_devo/capital_fund/fin_street_improvements.htm>.

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2005 <http://www.thc.state.tx.us/grantsincent/grapdf/THCGrantGuide.pdf >. Texas Preservation Trust Fund. 2005. Texas Historical Commission. 28 Nov. 2005

<http://www.thc.state.tx.us/forms/tptf/TPTFGrantApp05.pdf>. Texas PTA. 2001. Texas Congress of Parents and Teachers. 27 Nov. 2005

<http://www.txpta.org/index.html>. The Association of Junior Leagues International INC. 2005. The Association of Junior League. 27

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TRPA Grant Programs. 24 Oct. 2005. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. 28 Nov. 2005 <http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/business/grants/trpa/#trail>.

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Appendix A Rehabilitation Tips (from the Resource Team Workbooks of the National Main Street Center)

♦ Carefully examine old buildings for termites, wood rot and general deterioration. ♦ Do not sandblast. Chemicals and/or water can remove dirt and paint without damaging

the surface of the building. ♦ Do not paint too often; many times a building only needs mild washing. ♦ When repairing a building, do not cut expenses on the roof or the foundation. ♦ When mortar is missing or in poor repair, moisture will enter the walls and eventually

may cause structural damage. Deteriorated mortar should be removed to a depth of at least three-fourths of an inch and replaced with new mortar that matches the old in color, texture and striking of the joint. A technical preservation brief (Preservation Brief #2) on repointing mortar joints in historic brick buildings is available from the National Park Service web site at www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/presbhom.htm.

♦ Be aware of areas on the roof and at connecting walls where water does not readily

drain. Flashing should be installed at intersections to prevent leakage. ♦ Carefully locate air-conditioning units to avoid water condensation on the sides of

buildings. Condensing units should be supported from the masonry walls and not placed directly on the roof.

♦ The top brick cornices that project above the roof deteriorate rapidly unless they are

capped with metal, terra cotta, stone, or concrete. ♦ Existing architectural details, including old wood doors, windows, ceilings, and trim

work, add to the character of a building and its resale value. Repair these features rather than remove them.

♦ If the building has stone or brick that has never been painted, do not create a

maintenance problem by painting it. ♦ Do not use aluminum siding. It can hide water penetration into the walls and accelerate

deterioration.

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♦ Pressed metal ceiling panels are still being manufactured today with some of the same patterns installed originally. Deteriorated panels, therefore, can be replaced exactly.

♦ Wood windows are reasonable to repair, if a specialist in window repair can be found. If

the windows are missing, custom-made windows can be ordered for replacement in old buildings.

♦ Rehabilitation of buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places should be

preserved in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s “Standards for Rehabilitation”. A list of these standards can be found in Appendix VII or visit www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/tax/rhb/stand.htm.

♦ Retain a sense of continuity by carrying exterior building design inside the structure. ♦ Before rehabilitating a building façade, take a careful look at the structural aspects of the

building. Develop a design that is compatible with neighboring buildings. ♦ Additions made to historic buildings should blend harmoniously with the existing

structures. ♦ Free assistance in selecting paint, fabrics and color schemes for building facades and

awnings is available from the Main Street architect. ♦ Demand quality.

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Appendix B Examples Sign Guidelines from Clawson

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