Harry’s Plaza project arouses City enthusiasm

The Harry’s Plaza project, for which a ground breaking will be held on May 16 at 11 a.m., has indeed aroused the enthusiasm of City of Abbeville officials, and work on it is expected to begin later this year.

According to the City of Abbeville, “a total of $850,000 in grant funds has been secured to make the Harry’s Plaza Project a reality! Work is expected to begin on the Harry’s Plaza Redevelopment Project in the late spring/early summer of 2025!

“The Harry’s Plaza Project would consist of the redevelopment of Harry’s Plaza into a tiered parking area/event space complete with a park, an EV car charging station, and act as a catalyst for the revitalization of the northern section of downtown Abbeville! The Harry’s Plaza Project would be the most significant downtown revitalization initiative undertaken by the City since the renovation of the Livery Stable and construction of the Church Street parking lot.”

Harry’s Plaza is located in a space between North Main and Spring streets in downtown Abbeville, between Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the old radio station building.

“The grants for Harry's Plaza will cover about 65% of the estimated project cost of $1,300,000,” said City of Abbeville Deputy Administrative Officer Mike Clary.

“Grant funds are $850,000. The City has taken out a Revenue Bond and a General Obligation Bond to cover the remaining costs. The GO Bond will also be used to complete the New Police Department Building that is set to get underway this year.”