The City of Hoopeston is hoping to open new doors for future development.  Mayor Jeff Wise looks forward to a demolition project that will clear the way for space to attract new businesses. Nine old buildings, most in the 200-block of East Main Street, will be the start of a demolition process beginning December 27th.  Mayor Wise explains the intent is to offer businesses a fresh start, creating their own business setting, rather than putting a lot of money into rehabbing old buildings.

It's a big undertaking for Hoopeston, but the Mayor believes the city has potential to attract and develop unique businesses. The hope is to ignite a spark for downtown. 

Last month (November), the Vermilion County Board awarded Hoopeston $600,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money for road improvements to help in bringing a hotel project to the city.

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