The Tryon Downtown Development Association (TDDA) will host a design workshop, or “charrette,” to generate development concepts for the future direction of the Palmer Street area in downtown Tryon Friday, May 6 at 10 a.m.

The term “charette” means “cart” or “chariot” in French. Architectural students frequently worked to the last minute on their design presentations, even while riding in the school cart (en charrette) through the streets of Paris en route to submit their projects to their professors. The term became synonymous with working right up until a deadline, or an intense work session.

The goal of the two-day event is to develop ideas suggesting future potential and development opportunities that would be beneficial to the long-term growth and vitality of the downtown Tryon area. The study area encompasses the area bound by Trade, Howard, Palmer and Maple Streets.

The charrette will take place at the Tryon Fire Station. Participants will brainstorm ideas, facilitated by local design professionals who will lead groups in illustrating concepts. The session will conclude with a public presentation Saturday, May 7, at 11 a.m.

Lew Holloway, urban designer with the Small Town Main Street Program, will serve as the meeting moderator. Holloway was Tryon’s representative during the recent Small Town Main Street process.

The public is invited and encouraged to attend and participate throughout the two-day session. Contact John Walters AIA, TDDA Design Committee Chair, for additional information 828-859-0329.