The city will eventually add foilage, flowers and benches
A small corner lot in downtown International Falls that features a mural of a piece of the community’s history is now the property of the city.
The small lot at Third Street and Third Avenue is very visible to residents and visitors alike.
Border State Bank President Mike Katrin said the idea to donate the lot to the city was supported when the bank found the city had a viable future use plan for the site.
“The bank has had an interest in the property for some time, and since the site was already being used as a small park and pavilion, it seemed a logical step for the city to take ownership,” said Katrin.
There are limited building restrictions to protect the Iltis Drug Store historic mural on the adjoining building. The mural project was organized by Len Millard, painted by Bruce Trask, and paid for by the city in partnership with an outdoor arts grant from the Northland Arts Foundation.
Falls Mayor Shawn Mason said the city will eventually add foliage, flowers, and benches, while taking care to maintain the full view of the Iltis Drug Store historic mural.
“The city is thrilled with Border State Bank's very generous donation,” said Mason. “We plan to preserve the location as a green ‘pocket park’ to compliment the aesthetics of the main street district.”
Mason added that the city plans to allow for a concessionaire and believes that the little park will benefit area citizens, merchants and visitors.
She said the city is interested in expanding its "fight on blight" program with more murals and green projects in the community. Citizens are encouraged to submit location ideas. At least one mural per year can be recommended for grant funding through the Northland Arts Foundation.
