Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street Celebrates State Award Winners
Missouri Main Street Connection Inc. presented downtown revitalization awards on July 30, 2020, during the annual Evening of Excellence Virtual Ceremony on Facebook Live.
The virtual ceremony honored communities, individuals, businesses, and organizations from across the state that have completed exemplary revitalization work. Competitive nominations were submitted for projects, activities, and individuals in 15 different categories that covered aspects of design, economic vitality, organization, promotion, and other efforts in downtown revitalization.
Nick Parker received Missouri Main Street Connection’s Volunteer of the Year award during the ceremony. Nick has been a valuable and trusted volunteer for Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street since 2012. Nick is a member of the organization’s Downtown Days Committee, Emerald Isle Parade Committee, Organization Committee, Economic Enhancement Committee, and serves on the Board of Directors. Nick’s leadership on each of these committees has been important for Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street, especially when navigating events and projects during the COVID-19 Pandemic. His dedication to Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street and support of downtown businesses showcases why he was chosen as the state’s Volunteer of the Year.
John and Kim Carlson received the award for Best Façade Rehabilitation over $10,000 for their work to restore 22 SW Third St. Purchased by the Carlsons in 2019, the 1886 building formerly housed the Do Drop Inn from 1961-2019. In the 1970s, metal screening was added to the second floor and the original first floor façade was bricked to create a modern look. The Carlsons removed the 1970s facade to find the original window casings and corner entry of the building. They restored the exterior of the building to look very much like it did when it was first constructed in 1886. 22 SW Third St is one of the oldest buildings in Downtown Lee’s Summit and is an important gateway into the downtown district.
Arcade Alley was recognized as a semi-finalist for Most Innovative Project for Repurposing Vacant Space. Owners Pat Maloney and Alex Ruiz renovated the former Lee’s Summit Dry Cleaners building from the ground up to bring a new concept in dining and entertainment to downtown Lee’s Summit. Arcade Alley is a restaurant, bar and interactive vintage gaming venue that specializes in craft beer, frozen cocktails, and upscale small plates.
Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street is proud to recognize our semi-finalist and award winners. Volunteers and projects like these are what make Downtown Lee’s Summit a special place.
