Might have been love in bloom in the Rose District, Valentine’s Day 2015. Plenty of traffic, tables full of diners, restaurants full of hustling waiters and waitresses. Great things on Main, and such a change from just a couple of years ago!
And it wasn’t just the food establishments: while walking down the sidewalk toward Fiesta Mambo, I was passed by a quickly jogging young man who trotted around the corner, up the block and into the front door of Arrow Flowers. Earlier in the day, I spotted their delivery van making Valentine’s Day deliveries. Lighted hearts brightened the windows at Star Jewelers where a steady stream of folks made their way in and out.
The changes continue, as progress is made on the building renovations and new construction. The lighting isn’t perfect for photography this evening, but I put on the coat and gloves and wandered the block to snap a few update shots.
Atop the bank spire, the newly-installed clock is set to chime in the new day, or the next era in downtown banking for AVB, the long-standing institution formerly known as Arkansas Valley Bank. Although the footprint of the structure appears smaller than the current facility, its height makes it an impressive addition to the Rose District. Even on Sunday, crews were out in hardhats getting things done.
Just north of Dallas Street, the building that will feature Andolini’s Pizzaria is taking shape. The upper two floors will feature upscale loft apartments and it appears that the interior work appears well on its way.
As I approached the mid-block crosswalk (which Broken Arrow drivers are still trying to understand – use caution as a pedestrian!), I spotted plenty of blank canvas waiting to become artwork at Pinot’s Pallette. It must be a popular activity, since I regularly see folks carrying their finished works toward their parked cars.
Although we’re back to cold weather (the norm for February except for Oklahoma, where we always get a few spring-like afternoons), it was a fine day Saturday and the Rose District was busy all day with folks strolling the sidewalks. A number of those who came through the bookstore admitted it was their first time to visit since the renovation.
It still surprises me.
There is so much being offered in the Rose District, I would have thought everyone would have turned onto Main Street by now. But it’s only getting better!
Come visit!
McHuston
Booksellers and Irish Bistro
Rose District
122 South Main St. Broken Arrow OK!