It was a packed house at the Gallery in Slidell July 9 as members of the community turned out to hear about the program underway to revitalize the city’s historic heart, Olde Towne.

Brenda Case of the Olde Towne Task Force addressed the group with a slideshow presentation during the Second Wednesday Luncheon hosted by the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce.

“Olde Towne is for everyone,” she said. “These efforts are about revitalizing a treasure for us all to be proud of.”

Brenda Case of the Olde Towne Task Force is presented with a piece of STARC artwork after addressing the Second Wednesday Luncheon hosted by the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce on July 9. Case presented a slideshow presentation outlining the efforts to revitalize Slidell'€™s historic district. Pictured are, from left: Brenda Case; Dawn Rivera, STARC; and Alan Hodges, East St. Tammany Chamber. (Staff Photo by Anne Lautzenheiser)

The task force is divided into four committees.

The Design Committee, arguably the most visible, has implemented a number of projects to help enhance the area’s architectural and aesthetic charm.

Among them are series of public murals, the first of which will be installed at Fremaux Avenue and First Street, and a window display project, to help shop owners make the most of their storefront presentation.

The Economic Development Committee has undertaken a number of surveys and projects with the help of Southeastern Louisiana University. An inventory was recently conducted, wherein a photo was taken of each and every property in Olde Towne, and categorized with its corresponding demographic data.

In addition, a survey of business owners and residents was carried out.

“We want to make sure that what we’re doing is what people really want,” said Case.

Another committee is handling Promotions, and is responsible for getting the word out. The committee is in the process of creating maps and brochures to distribute around the region, and is setting up a Web site that will have an interactive map of Olde Towne. Visitors to the site will able to click on a location to see a picture of a business, as well as a link to that business’ Web site.

This committee works closely with the Events Committee to oversee the various community activities in the area, including the twice-yearly antique fairs, the Olde Towne Alive block parties, and the new Camellia City Market.

Case pointed out that many of the group’s efforts have been accomplished with help from the city, but from generous community cooperation. She emphasized the need not only for emotional support, but also for hands-on help, and encouraged listeners to volunteer their time to one of the committees.

For more information on the Olde Towne Task Force, call 646-4322.