Steve Domigan of SKDLA Inc., center, with representatives from his firm, will take charge of the landscaping project at the county courthouse. Also shown: members of VDL's Design Committee. Vision Downtown Lampasas! is in the midst of its $30,000 Catch the Vision fund-raising drive that it hopes to finish by the end of July.

"We are encouraged by the support we've received so far," said Maryann Severn, VDL board president. "We'd love to see every Lampasan give just a little to the effort. If each person gives $4.29, we will reach our goal."

Mrs. Severn said VDL is working to benefit the entire community. "More business, visitors and activity downtown means more businesses and better results for everyone in Lampasas."

VDL has some accomplishments under its belt, said the board president, including creation of a Neighborhood Empowerment Zone which provides incentives for developers to invest in the downtown area.

And through cooperation with local banks, VDL facilitated a low-interest loan pool for downtown businesses to renovate their buildings.

VDL also has compiled a comprehensive database of all area properties, leading to land-use recommendations within the city.

The organization's art committee created an original mural, "The Boot Round-up," which garnered reviews and attention nationwide.

Also, two major clean-up campaigns have taken place on and around the courthouse square.

And thanks to VDL, banners on Key Avenue and Third Street direct visitors to the historic downtown district.

"These are only a few of the projects VDL has been instrumental in organizing and implementing," said Mrs. Severn.

"Funds raised will go toward several projects, including completion of a second mural, 'Generations,' additional banners for city gateways and a facade grant to assist businesses in upgrading the appearance of their buildings."

Mrs. Severn said funds also will aid in supporting a fall festival and expanded holiday events.

In addition, VDL has hired Stephen K. Domigan of SKDLA Inc. to design and implement landscaping around the Lampasas County Courthouse.

Domigan is based in Austin, and has won many awards for design excellence.

"All landscape should be client-centered, site-specific and regionally appropriate," he said.

Domigan is working closely with the VDL Design Committee, its board of directors and the city and county of Lampasas to create a courthouse landscape that is suitable for the historic building and easy to maintain.

Planning should be completed by the end of summer, and preparing beds and planting is slated for the fall.

Mrs. Severn is excited about the plan. "For too long the landscape around our beautiful county courthouse has been neglected. It is time to focus on the courthouse as the centerpiece of downtown Lampasas," she said. "I am delighted that VDL has brought Steve Domigan on board for this project. He's the right person for it, and I know we will be happy with the result."

Money raised during VDL's Catch the Vision drive also will go toward paying for the landscaping project. Tax-deductible donations may be mailed to VDL! P.O. Box 211, Lampasas, TX 76550.

Vision Downtown Lampasas!, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to the revitalization of the downtown area through a comprehensive program of redevelopment activities.