Downtown is Getting a Face Lift

Driving down Main Street the past few days I began to realize how many store fronts were being updated and changed. For starters the Beard Building had some wonderful renovations done to it. I noticed that Pita Gourmet and Woodman's Pub had newly designed and painted exteriors. Hairy Tony's has brought some life to its section of Main Street. It's decorative lighting and boldly-colored sign draw your eye right in. Work is being done across the street near the Army recruitment center. At least I think that's what's under the big yellow structure. The post office recently had some work done in front of it as well. The Red Jug (the newly renovated bar, formerly Bald Lucy's) will surely bring some much need life to Central Ave. I'm hoping the same goes for whatever the old Murphy's turns out to be. I heard a rumor that another bar/restaurant is in the works. Anybody know for sure? I also think M&D Deli is hidden down there. [This is an premature restaurant review for Ray: but it is the best place to get a sandwich downtown. The white chili is to die for! The catered food is excellent as well!] Some sort of daily special board would work wonders on the corner of Main and Central. Radio and TV advertisements would be another way for restaurants to advertise. But I digress....

Some fresh energy has also been brought to downtown Cortland south of Main Street. Coffee Depot is located at 3 South Ave. where Coffeemania is now roasting their own coffees. The building, an old train depot, purchased by Michelle and Craig Brooks in the fall of 2005, houses Coffeemania's storage facility, a large roasting room, and a third area furnished with an espresso bar for training. Coffee Depot was opened to the public last weekend Nov. 10-11. Tours of the facility were given and also tastings of Coffeemania's own coffees and blends of espresso. Plans to offer retail services at Coffee Depot have not been determined. For now coffee can be purchased by the pound at either of Coffeemania's locations, Port Watson St. or Groton Ave.

I am glad to see that downtown Cortland is getting a make-over. This along with Ray' proposed restaurant advertising will surely bring more people to Cortland and keep younger people living in the area longer.

Until next time...
Katie