Businesses and the city have stepped forward and improved the appearance of downtown in response to a beautification effort in Hamlet.

Downtown Hamlet’s Small Town Main Street Program is wrapping up its first year and plans for its second year are currently in the works.

“I think what they have done is a beautiful addition to the town,” said Kim Lindsey, owner of Vector Shirts.

Improving their curb appeal, several businesses in the area have redefined color schemes, remodeled and spruced up the look of their buildings. Landscaping plans have been implemented, new benches line the sidewalks and plans for banners are in the works.

“The project is coming along slowly, but surely,” said Ron Mayo, owner of Main Street Cafe in Hamlet. “I’d really like to see more people at the meetings though.”

Along Main Street, Arlo’s Wrecker Service completely remodeled their business, Irene’s Beauty Shop changed the look of the building by painting the exterior of the shop and even landscaping at the Masonic Lodge had helped to clean up the image of Hamlet.

In the next few months the Tornado Building, across from the depot, will undergo a remodel and Vector Shirts will also work on the landscaping in front of the business this fall.

The Small Town Main Street Program is offered by the North Carolina Department of Commerce which provides technical assistance, training and networking opportunities to downtown revitalization. Hamlet was one of four cities to participate in the 2008-2010 cycle.

An Economic Restructuring Committee has inventoried buildings, determined needs of the community and is sending information to potential entrepreneurs.

Phase I of the Street Scape Plan developed by the design committee included benches, flowerpots, brick paver beds and lighting for the downtown district. Phase II of the project plans to have banners for downtown Hamlet approved by Council which are being splashed with the new logo for the downtown and will assist in the connectivity of the two downtown areas.

“We’ve got some things that haven’t shown up yet,” said CPA Bobby Singletary, “but it’s a better looking downtown now.”

Later in the fall, downtown Hamlet is conducting a “Paint Me Crazy Day” in which volunteers and committee members will assists business and property owners in re-painting buildings on Main Street. Likewise, Main Street Cafe will host the conclusion to the second annual Road Rally on Oct. 2 with a Cruise-In on Main Street.

“My hope is that we see many more improvements in the second year of our program both from the city and from our downtown business owners,” said Mayor Jeff Smart, project leader. “With these efforts, it is my belief that we can and will see our Hamlet business district proper once again.”

The city holds its planning meetings on the third Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at City Hall and everyone is invited to participate.