PORT NECHES — Patrons coming out to the Second Annual Art on the Avenue in Port Neches on Saturday will be greeted by a new, vintage look.

New sidewalks, brick-like crosswalks, ornamental lighting and benches are already in place and planters will be added soon as part of the Port Neches Avenue Enhancement Project.

Mike Lisotta stood outside his business, Mike’s Old Fashioned Soda Fountain, on the avenue and smiled.

“I’m thrilled with everything added,” Lisotta said. “It adds so much charm and a vintage look.”

Esther Macha, former owner of The Cherry Tree florist and owner of the Macha building, grabbed a light lunch at Mike’s on Friday. She’s also excited about the upgrades and said they add to the charm of the avenue.

Debbie Plaia, executive director of the Port Neches Chamber of Commerce, has watched the project unfold since late April.

“We are excited the Art Walk will be the first event along the avenue since the work has been completed,” Plaia said.

The Art Walk will feature local artists showing and selling, shopping o the avenue, food trucks, car show, kid zone, pumpkin patch and live music from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday on Port Neches Avenue.

Businesses along Port Neches Avenue likely had a tough time as the roadwork was done and traffic diverted for the summer months. But that is over now and traffic is back to its normal flow.

Plaia said she has noticed a positive reaction from folks visiting the avenue shops and noticing the enhancements.

Business owners were able to take part in choosing the styles of lighting, benches and planters.

The enhancement project came in at approximately $800,000, which included about $600,000 of funding from the Texas Department of Transportation.

Mary Meaux: 409-721-2429

Twitter: @MaryMeauxPANews