"Horne Square" Dedication April 26 at Noon

Dedication ceremonies for the new Downtown Plaza, to be officially called "Horne Square," are scheduled for Tuesday, April 26 at noon.

Mayor Jody McLeod, who teamed with Town Manager Steve Biggs to lead a years-long effort to turn the vacant lot at the corner of Main and Lombard Streets into a downtown "centerpiece," will be the main speaker.

The event was originally scheduled for Tuesday, April 5, but bad weather forced a postponement.

"So much as been done in recent years to make downtown a vibrant place again, and Horne Square will play an important part in continuing that progress," the Mayor said. "I hope everyone comes out to see our wonderful new downtown jewel and joins us in celebrating."

The Town Council recently voted to call the space ”Horne Square” in memory of the old Ashley Horne mansion, which once stood there. Granite from the old home was used in construction of the new plaza.

Town officials expect the area to become a popular meeting place, as well as a home for downtown activities. The town already offers free wireless internet service for visitors and others who gather there.

The plaza, a tree-covered sanctuary with beautiful sidewalks, benches, greenery and design, has earned the praise of residents all over town, including downtown business owners.

"I've already seen people enjoying it--families, kids," said Vincent Walsh, owner of a downtown jewelry store. "My wife and I think it's a beautiful park."

The new Horne Square includes 30 premium parking spaces. The $300,000 project, designed by Ashley Grady of G2 Design, is being funded through a $310,000 easement fee for a communications tower at the Operations Center property.