Courthouse Square Façade Undergoes Transformation

Sometimes, it is just the little things that can make a huge difference and that is what the new bathroom facilities at the amphitheater on the historic
Bolivar courthouse square do for the area.

“It should have been done years ago,” said Ken Savage. “I am just glad it was done, and am tickled to death.”

The court square hosts many city and county outdoor events bringing in hundreds to thousands of people throughout the year. It regularly hosts Music on the Square, Gospel Music on the Square, Open Air on the Square, and most recently the 21st Annual Remembrance “Cry Out America” program which was attended by United States Representative David Kustoff.

“When you have an event for two to up to 1000 people or more, you want to have something readily available and nice,” said Savage.

Prior to the new facilities being built, people had at one time been given access to the restrooms in the county courthouse.

“The last two mayors had a problem with people using the courthouse and we were barred,” said Savage. “After that, we moved to porta potties and that didn’t work out too well. Luckily, Calvin Howell allowed us to use the bathroom in his building. It was time for the city or county to step up and add a public restroom where people could have 100 percent access, and not have to wait for a key.”

The project was headed up by the Bolivar Downtown Development Corporation (DEVCO) and completed by Brad Grantham Construction. DEVCO and the City of Bolivar maintains the property. Previously, the location was a façade wall with an empty lot behind it. Now, when the door is open, it leads to a foyer, hallway, and the new bathrooms.

“Everybody brags on how nice they are and better than what they expected,” said Savage. “We do have a “green room” (that is really purple) for the
performers.”

The square itself is well manicured and maintained. Savage sees the addition of the restrooms making the court square more attractive for other type of events.

“This would make a great place for a wedding where a bridal party can use the restrooms, the wedding can be held on the stage, and the cake cutting can be done in the foyer. I joke Southern Living is going to put it in their magazine. It (the addition) is top notch.”

The new restrooms are located just to the right of the main stage.

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