A local entrepreneur says work downtown is about to hit a new phase.
Rabbi Rob Thomas has projects on the north side of the square in the A and A building, and the south side of the square.
Thomas says his crews are finishing phase one now.
He says the elevator is in place in the A and A building on the south side of the square. He says the next phase includes prepping apartments upstairs.
Thomas says the Strawn Opera House rebuild is a 2 to 3 year project.
Thomas is also planning on new home construction on College and Church across from the JHS Bowl.
He says that project is running into a few snags.
Rabbi Rob says workers discovered that previous demolition projects had left debris in the ground, which makes for a treacherous base.
Thomas says crews found untapped sewer and water lines in the ground, but they were not active. He says they are about ready for construction.
Rabbi Rob says the single family homes will be built on Church, and the town houses on College. He says the town houses will go up first.