“We hope that will be approved,” Blase said of the application.

The proposed work would narrow streets by 10 to 15 feet via green space that would be added to the existing sidewalks on the exterior of the square. It also calls for landscaping throughout the area, water features, brick-paved islands and crosswalks, and pedestrian seating.

City officials hope the improvements will cultivate a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere that will entice more people downtown to patronize businesses.

Opportunities

The housing study stated that existing businesses on the square mostly consist of banks, title companies, law firms and related businesses. These are complemented by a few mom and pop antique and gift stores, a couple of family restaurants, and a coffee shop.

“Even with these businesses the downtown square appears to have soft demand for much of its commercial space, which is evidenced by the significant amount of vacant storefronts and vacant upper floor space,” the study noted.

But the study also stated that the vacancies afford an opportunity because they provide readily available space.

The study also raised hopes for a pair of revitalization projects worth a combined $3.16 million that would offer an additional 30 housing units. A stronger housing base in the downtown would increase “the level of local consumers of business patrons in the area,” the study concluded.

A senior-housing apartment building, Newton Place, at 130 E. Spring St., recently opened up. The building contains 11 one-bedroom units and four two-bedroom units.

And within the next two weeks, a proposed plat for loft apartments and condominiums for the newly renovated Sterling Building, 124 S. Wood St., will come before the City Council for review. The Sterling Building would house five condominiums and seven apartments — four one-bedroom units and three two-bedroom units — on the top floor while reserving the first floor for retail and office space.

The proposed plat was recommended for approval last week by the Neosho Planning and Zoning Commission.

The study recommended that the city consider some measures, including changes in building codes, a streamlined permit approval procedure, incentives for businesses, and signs that would guide visitors to the downtown central business district.

Blase said the city budget for next year does not have any money set aside for signs. As for incentives, he said the city has to be careful about offering special incentives solely to downtown businesses in fairness to other businesses in town.