Brookway Boulevard is not the only entrance into Brookhaven.

     The Brookhaven Trust wants to extend a welcome to those arriving via the train, be they travelers just passing through, visitors stopping in the city or simply returning residents.

     To that end, the Trust has undertaken a project to spruce up the fronts of buildings and businesses along the downtown railroad corridor. The latest project represents a continuation of an effort to improve storefront appearances elsewhere in the downtown area.

     A story on today’s front page focuses on the Trust’s current efforts targeting the Brookhaven Outreach Ministries building at the corner of North Railroad Avenue and East Court Street.

     It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do sometimes!

     The rust-colored walls combined with the black-painted arched window openings provide an instant boost in the building’s historic appeal on the side facing the railroad. And Brookhaven Outreach Ministries is contributing to the effort by doing similar work on the Court Street side of the building.

     Other Trust projects along the railroad have included the former Lott Furniture building façade and the Whistlestop Motorcycle Shop building.

     Completion of the city’s new train station just north of the Outreach Ministries building has put a renewed focus on improving community appearances along the railroad and around the new facility.

     “We want to move toward the train station, make things look nice for people coming in on the train,” said Malisia Smith, current Trust president.

     With efforts like the projects already completed and the one under way, the Trust is achieving its goal and creating welcoming sights for visitors and more pleasant surroundings for those who live and work in downtown.