`Beautify Byhalia, Take Pride’

New pedestrian crosswalks are in place in downtown Byhalia, thanks to a partnership between Chamber Main Street, the town and Mississippi Main Street Association.

“These crosswalks look great for community and economic development,” said Sarah Sawyer, executive director of Byhalia Area Chamber Main Street, “and they also promote safety for those walking in the downtown area and those customers visiting our businesses.”

The project is supported in part by funding from the Mississippi Main Street Association.

It recently awarded funds to 15 Main Street Communities, including Byhalia, that applied for Community Development Grants for 2020-2021.

The grants are to incentivize development, improvement and revitalization in historic downtown business districts throughout Mississippi.

MMSA Designated Communities were able to apply for individual funds of up to $2,500 with a required matching investment for shovel-ready brick and mortar projects as well as consulting services that may be used to carry out a Designated Community’s program of work.

The Community Development Grant could be used for a wide range of projects as long as the project’s purpose supports the revitalization goals of the community.

“MMSA is proud to award these communities with Community Development funds that will help them achieve successful projects in their downtown business districts,” said Thomas Gregory, MMSA state coordinator. “We were able to expand our grant program this year thanks to the generous support of our public and private investors, which allows us to assist our communities with their downtown development projects and programs.”

The Byhalia project is part of an overall “Beautify Byhalia, Take Pride” for the town organized by the local Chamber Main Street and partnering with civic groups such as the Byhalia Lions Club, Byhalia Area Arts Council and Byhalia Garden Club. Mayor Phil Malone, public works director Doug Royal and police chief Ben Moore assisted in the planning of the crosswalks with the Byhalia Area Chamber Main Street.

The work in downtown Byhalia was done by CrossRoads Decorative Pavement.

The mission of the Mississippi Main Street Association is to be a catalyst for the preservation and economic revitalization of Mississippi’s historic downtowns and districts.

Other Mississippi communities awarded the recent grants included Amory, Clinton, Columbus, Crystal Springs, Greenwood, Hattiesburg, Indianola, Kosciusko, Louisville, Okolona, Ripley, Senatobia, Tupelo and Woodville.