Mayor J. Alan Peoples described the renovation as “a lynchpin for future development in downtown Tryon, allowing us to create greater connectivity between the Depot Plaza, Trade Street and Palmer Street.”

Upon completion, the St. Luke’s Plaza complex will create a focal point and public gathering space downtown, as well as add additional retail spaces.

“I am delighted to undertake this historic renovation,” contractor Mike Karaman said, “and delighted to work with Bob Lane, a true visionary in improving our town.”

Since acquiring the property in order to facilitate development of an enhanced public space, Lane has worked closely with architect Dean Trakas and Crys Armbrust, Tryon’s Business and Tourism officer.

“Dean Trakas and Crys Armbrust have been a joy to work with. Their enthusiasm for developing the St. Luke’s Plaza and the Depot Plaza is contagious,” he said.

The finalized St. Luke’s Plaza plan, approved by the planning and zoning board in December, echoes the building’s original history and function as a service station, while establishing cohesive, aesthetic continuity with another large-scale downtown renovation by Karaman, the historic 1906 Tryon Depot.

Acknowledging Bob Lane on behalf of Tryon and its citizens, Town Manager Caitlin Martin further reiterated the project’s potential impact on the town.

“Restoring this building to its historic roots will create a central, welcoming place in downtown.  In that process, two large sections of downtown will be joined with one fluid plan to encourage visitors and citizens to shop, dine and enjoy the charm of downtown Tryon,” Martin said.

Lane said he feels one of the most important aspects of the project was to consider the building’s history.

“Dean, Crys, Mike and I have the same sensitivity towards originality and authenticity in the restoration process. It is going to be fun watching it come together,” he said.