Roseboro town leaders are looking more hopeful now that their downtown revitalization project may be closer to becoming a reality, thanks to President Barack Obama’s $787 million stimulus package program that has funds ready to possibly rebuild the town’s infrastructure.

Mayor Roland Hall is anticipating that when funds make their way to Roseboro, the town will not only have money for its downtown project, but the package will also help with the town dig a new well.

“We need money to help with that,” said Hall in an interview. In addition, he would like to see the town get a new fire truck.

As part of the stimulus package program, some funds may be available to towns for investing in energy efficiency. And, if that is, in fact, the case, Hall has an idea for giving Roseboro a heads-up on those funds. He has heard of a system that allows meter readers to read from their trucks rather getting out and checking the amount of water that’s been used. It is something, he said, in which the town could greatly benefit.

In the case of immediate needs that could be met through the stimulus funds, Hall stressed the need for the new well and a fire truck.

“There’s a tremendous need for both of these things,” said Hall.

Mayor pro tem David Alexander also has hopes that the package can help the town revitalize its downtown business district.

To Alexander, the renovation of the downtown would increase the prospects of additional jobs in the area.

“I think Roseboro needs more establishments, eating establishments and more jobs,” said Alexander.

He is hoping that the package will help to make it possible for some of the manufacturing businesses to stay open. But, at this time, he does not foresee any businesses packing up and leaving the area, and with the stimulus plan, he is just hoping that it will motivate them to stay put.

Alexander agrees with Hall that the funds would be a great help to the town, particularly in getting a new water well completed. He stated that while the water is fine now it could be contaminated in a few years if a new well is not built.

But, the bottom line for Alexander is the need for more jobs and industry.

“We need new business,” stressed Alexander.

Commissioner Anthony Bennett is anticipating that the stimulus package will bring more funds into the downtown revitalization, as well.

“I think improving downtown as far as renovating buildings, so we can bring in new business.”

He would also like to see improvements in the city’s streets and sidewalks, when the funds become available.

Katie Holland can be reached at 910-592-8137, ext. 136, or by email at silife@myclintonnc.com.