By Paige Gurgainers
During a City of Springhill council meeting earlier this month, Main Street Director Amie Poladian announced one of the buildings located in the Springhill Historic District would be receiving a facelift in the upcoming year.
The Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Subgrant in the amount of $55,000, awarded by Louisiana Main Street, was secured by the Lofton family for revitalization of the old Branch Brothers building located at 301 South Main Street.
“We couldn’t be prouder of the Loftons for their vision and initiative in pursuing this grant,” Poladian said. “This project is a shining example of what’s possible when we combine our community’s passion for its heritage with the resources to bring that vision to life. This is just one of many positive improvements we see on the horizon for downtown Springhill, and I’m confident that a bright future lies ahead for our town.”
The Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Subgrant is a competitive program aimed at supporting the preservation of historic buildings in rural communities. The funds awarded to the Branch Brothers building will help ensure this iconic structure retains its historic charm while adapting to meet modern needs. As one of Springhill’s architectural gems, the building’s revitalization promises to enhance the downtown area’s aesthetic appeal and functionality, attracting more visitors and businesses to the heart of the town.
While the grant’s implementation timeline reflects the deliberate pace of government processes, with construction set to begin in the latter part of 2025, the anticipated results will be worth the wait. The rehabilitation will include structural and cosmetic updates that honor the building’s historic integrity while making it a viable space for future use.
“These improvements will not only preserve our history but also energize our economy by creating spaces that draw entrepreneurs, shopper, and community members,” Poladian said. “Projects like this remind us that investing in our past is investing in our future.”
The renovation of the Branch Brothers building marks another chapter in Springhill’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its downtown district. By combining historic preservation with forward-thinking initiatives, Springhill continues to position itself as a community that values its roots while embracing growth and opportunity.
For more information about the Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Subgrant or other Main Street initiatives, please contact Amie Poladian at (318) 578-3909 or mainst@springhill-la.us .