New Program Encourages Redevelopment in Old Town Belton

Published on September 30, 2021

Five improvement projects kicked off just six months after the adoption of the Old Town Belton Redevelopment Plan. From fresh coats of paint to brand-new patios, the improvements underway will increase the value of the applicant’s property and Old Town Belton, as a whole. 

The first residential application received was for 1100 Main Street. Some of you may know it as the house with the round barn. The Thompson family is investing over $27,000 into their home, and improvements will include a covered patio and breezeway, a remodel of the side and back porches, concrete work on their walkway and side patio, and revitalizing the exterior of the house with a fresh coat of paint and new landscaping.

“We are really excited to be the first application for this great program,” said homeowner, Wanda Thompson. The Thompson’s project is a level A-2 project, which grants 90 percent real property tax abatement for 10 years, or the cost of the improvements (whichever occurs first), upon completion of improvements.

Transportation Management Services, Inc., is a new business coming to 402 Main Street and is the first business to apply. “I knew I wanted to move my business to Belton’s Main Street,” said owner, Suzanne Baker. “I found a great space and I am excited to utilize this program for the improvements that need to be done.”

Their exterior improvements include repainting the building, demolition, removal of portions of the structure nearest the alley to create employee parking, awning and roof repairs, replacing doors and windows, and new signage. The interior improvements include new lighting, HVAC, and bringing the bathrooms to ADA compliance.

Transportation Management plans to invest over $91,000 in renovations to its building. Upon project completion, they will receive 90 percent real property tax abatement for 10 years, or the cost of the improvements (whichever occurs first), upon completion of improvements.

When combined with the three other applications, the total private investment from the first five projects is $331,101.56. The goals of this program are to eliminate blight and spur redevelopment in Old Town Belton. With the first five applicants currently working on their renovations, the Old Town Belton Redevelopment Area is off to a great start!