DURANGO, Colo. – An “eye in the sky” is keeping tabs on the progress in the 700 block of Main Ave., as the Durango Business Improvement District (BID), and Downtown partner Brainstorm Internet, have installed a webcam on the Graden Mercantile Building directly across from the construction area. Visit www.downtowndurango.org and click on the “Fire Recovery” button to view the ‘Eye on 700’ webcam.

“People are interested in what’s happening in the aftermath of the fire and the reconstruction of Downtown Durango,” said Jasper Welch, BID coordinator. “We hope this helps both visitors and locals keep current on the progress.”

On Feb. 22, fire destroyed the three historic buildings that housed Seasons Rotisserie & Grill, Half Price Tees and Le Rendezvous Swiss Bakery & Café. BID activities in the aftermath have included establishing the 700 Block Disaster Relief Fund to support displaced workers and first responders, the “One Month After the Fire” street party to honor the first responders and raise monies for the Fund, and, most recently, the installation of original local artwork on the construction zone façade. In addition to the bird’s eye view of the construction zone, webcam viewers can also capture a glimpse of the artwork.

“We had 23 artists participate in the mural project, and their efforts have truly enlivened this portion of Main. There are some great pieces,” said Bob Kunkel, the City’s Downtown business and promotions specialist, noting a few more panels are being completed and will soon be installed. “We also noticed in viewing the ‘Eye on 700’ webcam, that the roof of the pedestrian walkway is quite visible. It’s another opportunity for beautification.”

While no specific timeline has yet been determined for completion of the destroyed buildings, a “new” Seasons is currently being designed by R. Michael Bell & Associates, with staff actively participating in Downtown events to maintain awareness of the popular restaurant.

To participate in the summer season, Half Price Tees has opened in a temporary location in the lower level of 600 Main (the corner of College and Main Ave.). No definitive plans for Le Rendezvous have been announced as of this writing.

“The Downtown is healing,” said John Wells, BID presiding officer. “Nothing happens overnight, but we’ve all pulled together to make the best of a disheartening situation. I encourage everyone to tune in to the ‘Eye on 700’ and watch the Phoenix rise from the ashes.”

The Durango Business Improvement District was formed in 1997 with a goal and mission to support businesses within the District by assisting with special event marketing, providing research on topics of concern to the District (facilities, special events, best practices), planning and development of new facilities, and providing capital budget for equipment that enhances business in the District. Funding is generated by a 1.5 mill levy on property owners within the district, with additional marketing dollars contributed by the City of Durango and Durango Area Tourism Office. BID Board members are John Wells, presiding officer; Bob Allen, Karen Barger, Rod Barker and Tim Wheeler.