Visitors to downtown Hutchinson will see six years of revitalization work continue in 2008.

Spectators continue to visit the Main Street Dam site to watch construction progress of the new rock rapids spillway. The new structure’s natural-looking tiers of rocks — built to allow fish to swim up and down — also provide the sound of rushing water. The project will be completed during the spring and summer with landscaping of the north and south shoreline.

Across Main Street from the spillway is historic Plant 1 owned by Hutchinson Utilities. This brick two-story “light plant” was built in 1935-1936 to provide municipal electricity to residents. Its prominent position at the main entry to downtown is more noticeable since the completion of a two-year widening of State Highway 7 from two to four lanes.

Hutchinson Utilities plans to spruce up its grounds during the summer of 2008, and provide public parking between the building and the river for people using the Luce Line State Trail or visiting the riverfront. Utilities also plans to create a display in the building highlighting its “powerful” history.

The intersection of Main Street and State Highway 7 is bound to change during the year, too. Four businesses and as many homes were torn down along this area to allow expansion of the highway. The city is rezoning this area to allow businesses to develop there. This is perhaps the busiest intersection in the city, and interest from developers is expected.

When it comes to downtown issues, the Hutchinson Downtown Association is there to help. It is a subcommittee of Hutchinson’s Economic Development Authority. Its membership of 50 businesses strives to improve downtown by offering businesses an association to set and accomplish goals. The group has monthly board meetings, an annual business seminar, twice-weekly Farmers Market, July Picnic in the Park, flower pots and Main Street Christmas celebration including free horse-drawn trolley rides.

For more information or to join the Hutchinson Downtown Association, call (320) 234-5652.